Fluid transfer assembly and methods of fluid transfer

ABSTRACT

A fluid container designed for filling through an opening in a bottom surface. The fluid container includes a connection device, including a ring crimped around the opening and a cap. The ring may include a ferrous metal. The cap may include a magnetic material. The cap may be removable from the fluid container. The cap is coupled to the ring via magnetic attraction to seal the opening in the bottom surface in a fluid container closed position. The connection device is designed to transition from the fluid container closed position to a fluid container open position when the connection device is coupled to a filling device for filling of the fluid container.

PRIORITY

This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/730,549, filed Dec. 28, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,284,174, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/582,036, filedDec. 30, 2011, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/008,786, filed Jan. 18, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No.8,777,182, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/296,305, filed Jan. 19, 2010, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/992,881, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,763,655,which was filed as a U.S. national stage application under 35 U.S.C.§371 of International Application No. PCT/US2009/044534, filed May 19,2009, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/054,686, filed May 20, 2008, and to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/154,726, filed Feb. 23, 2009. Each of the aforementioned applicationsis incorporated by reference in its entirety into this application.

BACKGROUND

Various types of containers are designed to hold beverages, from cansand bottles, to cardboard boxes and wooden casks. Liquid may be storedin large containers and transferred to relatively smaller containers forconsumption via a spout, hose, faucet, tap, or fountain. Such transfermethods fill a serving container from the top of the serving container,or through the surface of the filled liquid in the serving container.However, filling a serving container from the top may increase foam ofcarbonated beverages. To reduce the foam, a user generally pours out theexcess from the serving container, thereby wasting liquid.Alternatively, a user may wait for the foam to settle, which requiresextra serving time and attention.

Accordingly, top filling methods generally require a server to perform anumber of actions, including properly positioning the serving container,starting the flow of liquid, stopping the flow of liquid, and removingthe serving container, each action requiring coordination and usuallyphysical contact with the serving container during the filling process.Moreover, transfer devices for top filling methods often take a largeamount of space on a counter or serving area, and require attention tooperate and control.

The following references relate to containers and devices for bottom-upfilling: International Publication No. WO 2007/102139 to Charles, andU.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2008/0223478 to Hantsoo etal., each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety intothis application.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A dispensing system as described herein permits a serving container tobe filled through a bottom thereof. The dispensing system may include acontainer connection device coupled to the bottom of the container. Thecontainer connection device includes a valve to permit fluid flowthrough the bottom during a filling process, which provides a fluidtight seal after disconnecting from a dispensing connection device. Thedispensing connection device may be coupled to a fluid source to providea fluid to fill the container. The dispensing connection device andcontainer connection device are configured to mate and provide a fluidflow path between a filling source and the container. The dispensingsystem may include additional features, such as, for example, a basin,drain, advertising space, lights, etc.

In one embodiment, the dispensing system may include a flushing system.The flushing system may remove liquid from the dispenser connectiondevice after a container is removed. Removing the liquid may reduce thepotential for stale liquid to accumulate in the dispenser connectiondevice between fillings. The flushing system may flush the dispenserconnection device with a cleansing fluid, such as, for example, water,alcohol, or air to remove the liquid from the dispenser connectiondevice between uses.

In one embodiment, a removal system permits rapid draining of acontainer through its bottom. The removal system may be coupled to thecontainer connection device to permit rapid removal of the previouslyfilled fluid of the container. The removal system may open a valve ofthe container connection device and create a fluid flow path from thecontainer to the end of the removal system.

In one embodiment, a fluid transfer assembly includes a fluid containerhaving an opening in a bottom thereof, a coupling device attached to thefluid container at the opening, the coupling device including a valvebiasing the coupling device in a closed fluid-tight position viamagnetic attraction of opposing first and second components, each of theopposing first and second components including a magnetic material, anda filling device including a rigid member with a perimeter smaller thana perimeter of the fluid container opening, the rigid member including apassage along a longitudinal axis and one or more apertures through asidewall in fluid communication with the passage, wherein the couplingdevice is transitioned from the closed fluid-tight position to an openposition by pressing the rigid member against one of the opposing firstand second components to place the apertures in fluid communication withan interior of the fluid container. One of the first and secondcomponents may be a magnetic ring crimped to the bottom of the fluidcontainer.

In another embodiment, a dispenser connection device includes a nozzleincluding a passage along a longitudinal axis and one or more aperturesthrough a sidewall in fluid communication with the passage, a platformsurrounding the nozzle including an opening larger than a perimeter ofthe nozzle, the nozzle positioned in the opening, the platform includinga magnetic material at least partially surrounding the opening, and aflexible collar member attached to the platform, translating thedispenser connection device between a closed position, wherein theflexible collar member and/or the platform cover the one or moreapertures of the nozzle, and an open position, wherein at least aportion of the one or more apertures are uncovered.

In yet another embodiment, a beverage dispensing system includes acontainer including a valve biasing an opening in the bottom of thecontainer in a closed position, the valve including a magnetic cap, anozzle including a magnetic material on or adjacent a top surfacethereof, the nozzle magnetic material having sufficient strength to holdthe magnetic cap of the valve such that movement between the nozzle andcap are prevented upon contact of the top surface of the nozzle with themagnetic cap, and a platform circumferentially surrounding a portion ofthe nozzle, the platform translating along a longitudinal axis of thenozzle.

In another embodiment, a fluid container includes an opening in a bottomsurface thereof, and a coupling device connected to the bottom surfaceof the container around the opening, the coupling device including afirst component in contact with the bottom surface of the fluidcontainer around the opening, the first component including a magneticmaterial, and a second component in contact with the first component ina fluid-tight closed configuration, the second component including amagnetic material, a top surface of the second component viewable from atop of the fluid container including a personal or commercial message,the coupling device biased in the fluid-tight closed configuration viamagnetic attraction of the first component and the second component.

In still another embodiment, a removal system to remove a beverage froman attached container includes a base configured to mate with a bottomof the attached container, fingers projecting from the base to open avalve on the bottom of the attached container when the drainage systemis coupled to the attached container, and a conduit coupled to the base,from an opposite side than the fingers to direct the beverage from theattached container to a desired location.

In one embodiment, a method of fluid transfer includes providing afilling device including a nozzle and a platform surrounding the nozzle,the nozzle having a passage along a longitudinal axis and one or moreapertures through a sidewall in fluid communication with the passage,the platform translating along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle,positioning a fluid container over the filling device, the fluidcontainer including an opening in a bottom thereof and a coupling devicebiasing the opening in a closed fluid-tight position by magneticattraction of opposing separable first and second components, each ofthe opposing separable first and second components including a magneticmaterial, aligning the fluid container coupling device with the fillingdevice platform, and contacting the platform with an exterior surface ofthe coupling device to translate the platform along the nozzlelongitudinal axis, the nozzle separating the first component from thesecond component to place the apertures in fluid communication with aninterior of the fluid container.

In one embodiment, a dispensing system is provided to dispense a fluidinto a coupled fluid container through its base. The dispensing systemincludes a valve which includes a container sensor, a fluid sensor, andan actuator assembly to control the dispensing of the fluid. Thedispensing system may include a user interface to enable a user toselect a filling mode and a filling size. The dispensing system may alsoinclude a processor configured to receive signals from the containersensor and the fluid sensor, and to send signals to the actuatorassembly. The actuator assembly is coupled to a plunger and movement ofa solenoid in the actuator assembly may cause the plunger to open andallow the fluid flow or close and stop the fluid flow. The valve mayalso include a turbine coupled to the fluid sensor to determine a fluidflow rate so that the dispensing system may be run automatically to fillthe coupled fluid container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The multiple drawings refer to the embodiments of the invention. Whileembodiments of the invention described herein are subject to variousmodifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof havebeen shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein bedescribed in detail.

FIG. 1 illustrates a representative container connected to a beveragedispenser according to embodiments of the design for filling thecontainer through its bottom.

FIGS. 2A-C illustrate a representative progression of a container from aclosed, liquid-holding state to an open, liquid-filling state, when thecontainer is coupled to a beverage dispenser.

FIG. 3 illustrates a representative embodiment of a container bottomfrom a top view according to embodiments of the container connectiondevice.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrate a representative embodiment of a containerconnection device in multiple pieces capable of connecting to a bottomof a container.

FIGS. 5A-B illustrate a representative embodiment of a containerconnection device capable of connecting to a bottom of a container.

FIG. 6 illustrates a representative dispenser connection deviceaccording to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the container connection deviceillustrated in FIG. 4.

FIGS. 7A-B illustrate a representative dispenser connection deviceaccording to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the container connection deviceillustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 illustrates a representative dispenser connection deviceaccording to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the container connection deviceillustrated in FIG. 3.

FIGS. 9A-B illustrate a representative dispenser connection deviceaccording to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device.

FIG. 10 illustrates the container connection device of FIG. 4 coupled tothe dispenser connection device of FIG. 6 in an open position for fluidflow between a fluid source and the container.

FIG. 11 illustrates the container connection device of FIG. 5 coupled tothe dispenser connection device in an open position for fluid flowbetween a fluid source and the container.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of a representative dispensingsystem according to embodiments of the invention, including a containerwith a container connection device and a dispenser with a dispenserconnection device with various features described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a representative flushing device according toembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 14A-B illustrate one embodiment of a flushing device to removeliquid from the dispensing system after use.

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary dispensing system including variousembodiments as described herein, including the flushing device.

FIGS. 16A-B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a removal system usedwith a container connection device as described herein.

FIG. 17 illustrates a representative front, top, right perspective viewof a valve of a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18 illustrates a representative top plan view of a valve of adispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 19 illustrates a representative rear elevation of a valve of adispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20 illustrates a representative left side elevation of a valve of adispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 21 illustrates a representative rear, left, top view of a valve ofa dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 22 illustrates a representative rear, left, bottom view of a valveof a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 23 illustrates a representative rear, left, top exploded view of avalve of a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 24 illustrates a representative rear, right, top view of a valvewith the valve block and the lower block shown in broken lines toillustrate some internal components of the valve, in accordance withsome embodiments.

FIG. 25 illustrates a representative cross section view of a valveshowing the solenoid in a position when the valve is closed, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 26 illustrates a representative cross section view of a valveshowing the solenoid in a position when the valve is open, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 27A illustrates a representative front, top, right view of ahousing of a dispensing system having multiple valves, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 27B illustrates a representative close up view of the userinterface, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 28 illustrates a representative bottom, front, right view of adispensing system having multiple valves, in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 29 illustrates a representative bottom view of a dispensing systemshowing source tubes connected to valves, in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 30 illustrates a representative bottom view of a dispensing systemshowing the source tubes with a first layer of insulation, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 31 illustrates a representative bottom view of a dispensing systemshowing the source tubes with a second layer of insulation, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 32 illustrates a representative cooling system showing how thetemperature of the source fluid can be controlled during transport, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 33 illustrates a representative dispensing logic diagram, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 34 illustrates a representative dispensing flow diagram, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 35 illustrates a representative cup with a magnetic ring crimpedaround and opening or hole in the bottom of the cup from a bottom-angledview.

FIGS. 36A-C illustrate a representative magnetic ring according toembodiments described herein.

FIG. 37 illustrates a representative crushed cup with a crimped magneticring according to embodiments described herein to show an example of howunwanted leaks are prevented.

FIGS. 38A-F illustrate a representative process of crimping a ring ofmagnetic material, such as a ferrous metal, to a plasticcontainer/vessel/cup, and subsequent placement of a magnetic cap overthe crimped magnetic ring.

FIGS. 39A-B illustrate one method of pre-crimping the magnetic ringusing a rotating tool.

FIGS. 40A-B illustrate another method of pre-crimping the magnetic ringusing a non-rotating tool.

FIGS. 41A-B illustrate one method of performing a final crimp.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of exemplary embodiments, reference is madeto the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which it isshown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the inventioncan be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments can beused and structural changes can be made without departing from the scopeof the embodiments of this invention. As used herein, the terms“couple,” “connect,” and “attach” are interchangeable and includevarious forms of connecting one part to another either directly orindirectly. Also, it should be appreciated that one or more structuralfeatures described in one embodiment could be implemented in a differentembodiment, even if not specifically mentioned as being a featurethereof.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth,such as examples of specific containers and liquids, in order to providea thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent,however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may bepracticed without these specific details. For example, the descriptionis discussed generally in terms of devices used with a keg fordispensing beer into a glass or pitcher; however, the device may be usedwith other beverages, such as sodas, and other beverage containers, justas glasses or mugs, and storage containers other than kegs. Disposablecups are also envisioned as an alternative container, which may be usedfor beverages at parks, concerts, or other venues where glass is notpermitted. Alternatively, the device is not so limited in the type ofliquid stored and transferred. For instance, embodiments of the devicemay be used in transferring various fluids between two containersaccording to the below description, such as, for example, oil. Gaseoussubstances may also be transferred using embodiments of the assembly.The specific details may be varied and still be within the spirit andscope of the invention.

The fluid transfer assemblies and methods of fluid transfer describedherein are believed to provide advantages in commercial applications,including the selling/serving of carbonated beverages such as beer moreefficiently and effectively, providing a novel means for reaching targetmarkets (e.g., use of a message such as a logo/slogan on a viewable andperhaps removable part of a mug or pitcher containing the novel couplingdevice described herein), etc. The fluid transfer assemblies and methodsof fluid transfer described herein are also believed to provideadvantages as a consumer product which can be utilized in a localsetting, including the filling of containers with carbonated beveragesand the customization of portions of the assembly. For example, it iscontemplated herein that a family or group could host a party or specialevent using the fluid transfer assemblies and methods of fluid transferdescribed herein, customizing a viewable portion of the container toinclude a message, including a picture and/or text depicting the themeof the party (e.g., “50th birthday,” “Family Annual BBQ,” etc.). Furtherexamples include sports team representations, wedding day graphics,amusing pictures, jokes, etc. Such viewable portions of the container orassembly could be removable as discussed below (e.g., a magnetic cap) toprovide each person attending the party or special event a souvenir totake home.

In one embodiment, a method for filling a container through its bottomis provided. Filling a container through the bottom via use of thedevices and methods described herein is advantageous, for example, incontrolling the amount of foam created and significantly reducing the“head” on a carbonated beverage, such as soda or beer, relative toconventional methods. Moreover, by filling through the bottom of acontainer, the foam is pushed up and over the rim of the container,thereby reducing the amount of wasted beverage. A server may alsobenefit by not having to hold and tilt a glass or pitcher while pouringto remove the foam. Further, the number of taps may be reduced as morethan one type of beverage may be poured from the same system.Alternative embodiments include a dispensing system assembly and devicefor filling a container through the bottom. Other embodiments of thesystem include liquid evacuation for cleaning between uses, as well asrapid drain attachments to remove a beverage after filling thecontainer.

In one embodiment, a dispensing system is used to dispense a variety offluids, including beverages such as, for example, beer, soft drinks,carbonated beverages, etc. The fluid may be dispensed via a nozzleassociated with the dispensing system. The nozzle may be coupled to afluid container at a bottom of the fluid container. The dispensingsystem may include a user interface, including options to enable a userto specify dispensing mode, dispensing volume, etc. The user interfacemay be associated with a processor. The dispensing system may dispensethe fluid in automatic, semi-automatic, or manual mode. A sensor may beused to detect when a fluid container is properly placed on thedispensing platform. The sensor may also be used as a safety device toprevent fluid flow in any mode unless the fluid container is properlypositioned onto to the dispensing platform. The sensor may further beused to indicate to the dispensing system when a fluid container hasbeen removed so that the dispensing system may reset for the nextfilling, or perform a flush for cleaning.

FIG. 1 illustrates a representative container connected to a beveragedispenser according to embodiments of the design for filling a containerthrough its bottom. Referring to FIG. 1, a dispenser 100 is illustratedincluding a container 102 coupled and ready to be filled. The dispenser100 may be used to dispense beverages, including carbonated beveragessuch as soda, beer, etc. The container 102 may be any container forreceiving the liquid, including for example a pint glass, mug,disposable glass, or pitcher. The container 102 may couple to thedispenser 100 at or near the bottom 104 of the container 102. Therefore,the container 102 is filled below a surface of the filling beverageduring the dispensing process.

In one embodiment, the container 102 includes a container connectiondevice 106 that is designed to couple to a dispenser connection device108. The dispenser 100 may be coupled to a fluid source, such as a kegor carbonation and soda lines. The container connection device 106 mayinclude a valve that opens when coupled to the dispenser connectiondevice 108 and permits fluid flow therethrough. The container connectiondevice 106 may then close when the container 102 is removed from thedispenser 100, thereby preventing leaks from the container 102. Thedispenser 100 includes a housing 110 shaped to properly align thecontainer connection device 106 with the dispenser connection device108. The dispenser 100 may also include a basin 112 to catch anypotential spilled liquid. The basin 112 may include various shapes, suchas a bowl, raised lip, or recessed area. The basin 112 may include adrain 114 for easy disposal of caught liquid.

According to one aspect of the invention, during use, the container 102is coupled to the dispenser 100. When the attachment is made, thecontainer connection device 106 and the dispenser connection device 108engage to create a fluid path between the container and a fluid source,such that the container 102 is filled from a bottom portion thereof. Auser may overflow the container to remove any extra foam that may becreated at the top of the container during the filling process.Alternatively, some fluid may spill during the removal or fillingprocess. The basin 112 is designed to catch the overflow liquid, whichmay be removed through drain 114 to facilitate cleaning. When thecontainer 102 is removed from the dispenser 100, the containerconnection device 106 may be disengaged from the dispenser connectiondevice 108 to seal the container 102 from leaking.

In one embodiment, the dispenser 100 may be a separate device removedfrom the liquid source, but coupled by a hose or tube or other liquidtransporting device. The dispenser 100 may be incorporated into, orcoupled to, an immobile surface, such as a countertop, or may be anindependently movable platform to be arranged at the convenience of theuser. The dispenser 100 may also be in various shapes, and includeadditional features, such as the housing 110, basin 112, or drain 114.The dispenser 100 may alternatively include audio or visual devices. Forexample, the dispenser 100 may include information, logos, or designsidentifying the contents associated with a specific dispenser. In oneembodiment, the dispenser 100 may include lights that may be colored, orflash, or speakers that turn on when a container 102 is connected to thedispenser.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a representative progression of an exemplaryembodiment of a container 202 from a closed, liquid-holding state to anopen, liquid-filling state, when the container 202 is coupled to adispenser connection device 204. In one embodiment, the containerconnection device includes a valve, such as, for example, a cap 206,which is normally closed. The cap 206 is coupled to the bottom of thecontainer 202 and may include a liquid-tight seal to prevent fluid flowout the bottom of the container.

In one embodiment, the cap 206 may be used as an advertising space,visible to a consumer while they are consuming their beverage. Forexample, in such an embodiment the cap 206 may include logos, images,etc. to promote a commercial enterprise or relay other information tothe consumer. In one embodiment, the cap 206 itself, or a removableportion thereof, includes a magnetic material and commercialinformation, thereby serving to promote a company or product. Forexample, the magnet could have a company name and/or logo and could betaken home by a consumer as a souvenir for use on a refrigerator orother metal structure such that the company name and/or logo would beprominently displayed.

While coupled to the container 202, the dispenser connection device 204may include a device for opening the cap 206 and permitting fluid flowbetween the dispenser connection device 204 and the container 202. Thedispenser connection device 204 may couple to a liquid storagecontainer, such as a keg, barrel, or other container. The dispenserconnection device 204 may include a conduit to transfer the liquid fromthe storage container (not shown) to a serving or other container 202.The conduit may be generally flexible for guiding contents from thestorage location to the dispensing location without kinking or impedingthe fluid flow path.

FIG. 2A illustrates the container 202 in a closed configuration, capableof holding a fluid. The container 202 may be any beverage holdingvessel, including a cup, pitcher, pint, mug, or the like, or anynon-solid holding vessel. The container 202 includes a bottom 208 thatmay be used to support the container 202, and side walls to hold afluid. The container 202 also includes a top opening for dispensing thecontained fluid, such as for pouring or drinking. The bottom 208 has abottom opening separate from the top opening, to permit fluid flowduring filling. The bottom opening may be covered by a valve thatcreates a fluid tight seal when the container is not being filled. Inone embodiment, the valve includes a cap 206 that is normally biasedclose to create a fluid tight seal. The cap 206 may include a magneticmaterial that is attracted to a complementary magnetic material of aring 210 on bottom 208 of container 202. Ring 210 may generally encirclean outer edge of the hole, while the cap 206 has a shape and diameterthat covers the hole and may overlap at least a portion of the ring.

FIG. 2B illustrates the container 202 in contact with a dispenserconnection device 204, but before the valve of the container is opened.The dispenser connection device 204 is aligned with the bottom openingof the container 202. The cap 206 of the container 202 is biased closedby, for example, a magnetic attraction to the ring 210. The dispenserconnection device 204 includes a nozzle 212 with holes 214 to permitfluid flow during filling. The nozzle 212 is dimensioned to fit insidethe bottom opening of the container 202. The nozzle 212 pushes againstthe cap 206 and opens the valve of the container 202 to permit fluidflow for filling.

FIG. 2C illustrates the container 202 coupled to the dispenserconnection device 204 when the valve of the container is open forfilling. Nozzle 212 pushes against cap 206 as the nozzle enters thecontainer 202 and exposes apertures 214. In one embodiment, once thecontainer 202 and the dispenser connection device 204 are coupled, fluidis permitted to flow by opening a valve on the dispenser connectiondevice 204. In an alternate embodiment, fluid automatically flows whenthe apertures are exposed. For example, the liquid in the dispenserconnection device 204 may be kept under pressure. When not in use, theapertures 214 may be covered by a platform 216. When the container 202is coupled to the beverage dispenser, the nozzle 212 may push againstthe cap 206 opening the valve of the container, while the bottom 208 ofthe container pushes against the platform 216, exposing the apertures214. Once the apertures 214 are exposed, liquid may flow from thedispenser connection device 204 into the container 202 through theapertures 214.

When the nozzle 212 is removed from the bottom of the container 202, thevalve of the container closes and seals the container such that liquidis held therein. When the valve is sealed, the container 202 may be usedto hold the newly added liquid. In one embodiment, the cap 206 iscontinually attracted to the ring 210. When the influence of the nozzle212 is removed, the cap 206 rests in a closed position against the ring210, sealing the container 202. The fluid from the dispenser connectiondevice 204 may be contained by closing a valve on the beveragedispenser. In one embodiment, as the cap 206 seals the container 202,the platform 216 seals the apertures 214. Therefore, fluid is preventedfrom freely flowing out of the dispenser connection device 204 when acontainer 202 is not attached.

FIGS. 3-5 illustrate representative embodiments of a containerconnection device coupled at the bottom of a container. As describedabove, the container connection device may be designed to couple to adispenser connection device. The container connection device may includea valve that opens when coupled to a dispenser connection device thatpermits fluid flow therethrough. The container connection device maythen close when the container is removed from the dispenser, preventingany leaks from the container.

FIG. 3 illustrates a representative embodiment of a container bottom 300from a top view, including a hole 302, cap 304, and ring 306. Hole 302may permit fluid flow during filling from the bottom of the container.Ring 306 may surround a circumferential edge of the hole 302. Cap 304may cover hole 302 and at least a portion of ring 306, and may overhangring 306.

The cap 304 may be of various shapes. For example, in one embodiment,the cap may be a flat, generally circular disk that fits inside thecontainer bottom 300. Alternatively, the cap 304 may include a contouredsurface to mate with the hole 302 to properly align the cap 304 to thehole 302 or to create a better seal for the hole. In one embodiment, thecap 304 may be contoured to mate with the dispenser connection device.For example, the cap 304 may include a recessed contour on an undersideto receive a portion of the dispenser connection device and hold the cap304 in a desired location during the filling process.

Cap 304 and ring 306 may include magnetic material, such as a ferrousmetal. The magnetic properties attract cap 304 to ring 306, sealing hole302. Cap 304 may be coupled to the container bottom 300 so that it maybe easily removed, such as by the magnetic attraction to the ring 306.Ring 306 may be more permanently coupled to container bottom 300, suchas by adhesive, screwing, crimping, integrally molding it into thecontainer bottom, or other attachment means. The cap 304 and/or ring 306may include a sealing device, such as an O-ring or gasket, to betterensure a fluid tight seal around hole 302. Alternatively, the containerbottom 300 may include a sealing material, such as rubber, between thecap 304 and ring 306 to create a fluid tight seal.

FIG. 35 illustrates an embodiment, similar to the embodiment shown inFIG. 3, in which a ring 3506 of magnetic material is crimped to thebottom 3501 of container/cup 3500 around opening/hole 3502.Container/cup 3500 may be formed from a plastic or like material (e.g.,polyethylene terephthalate). Opening/hole 3502 is located in recessedregion 3503, which projects into the open interior of the container/cup3500. The recessed region 3503 may be shaped to match, fit tightly with,or be otherwise compatible with another device, e.g., a filling device,dispenser connection device, crimping tool, etc. A cap 3504 comprising amagnet or magnetic material couples to crimped ring 3506 by magneticattraction to seal opening/hole 3502. When coupled in a closed position,cap 3504 forms a fluid tight seal with ring 3506 and closes opening/hole3502. Cap 3504 is also movable to an open position to allow filling ofcontainer/cup 3500 with fluid through opening/hole 3502 when coupled toa filling device, e.g., through a dispenser connection device. Althoughcup 3500 is depicted as a 16/18 oz. cup, the invention can be used witha variety of containers and different sizes. The features of FIG. 35 arerepresentative of and interchangeable with similar features shown inFIGS. 36A-41B. Also, the magnetic material of the rings and caps of theembodiments of these figures may comprise, a ferrous material, aferromagnetic material, a magnet, a plurality of magnets, a plurality ofneodymium magnets, plating of one or more of these materials, etc. Thering and cap may also be formed entirely of a magnet.

This crimped ring embodiment, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 35-41B, isbelieved to be an improvement over magnetic rings that are glued orotherwise adhesively adhered to the bottom of a container/cup, formedfrom a plastic or like material, around an opening or hole therein forat least the following reasons, among others: (1) the surface of thecontainer/cup to which the magnetic ring is adhered can vary greatlywith respect to its “flatness” due to the manufacturing process involved(which can be very hard to regulate), resulting in distortions or gapsbetween the surface of the ring and the surface of the container/cup.Such distortions may cause the container/cup to leak; (2) if thecontainer/cup is crushed or squeezed, by an end user or duringtransport, the seals around the adhered ring may become compromised,potentially leading to leaks; (3) the process of gluing or otherwiseadhering magnetic rings to the bottom of containers/cups istime-consuming; (4) only certain glues are FDA-approved for drinkingcontainers/cups, which approved glues do not provide optimal adhesionsuch that the magnetic rings under certain conditions are subject toseparating (e.g., in higher temperature climates, etc.); and (5) duringthe manufacturing of certain containers/cups, a light coating ofsilicone is sprayed over the surface to assist with movement. Thiscoating can interfere with the adhesion of the magnetic rings,potentially causing them to detach.

FIGS. 36A-C illustrate a representative embodiment of ring 3506. Acentral opening 3610 is located in the center of ring 3506. As shown inFIG. 36C, the central opening 3610 is circumscribed by an annular lip3508 extending perpendicularly from the inner edge of the flat insidesurface 3620 of ring 3506. As described in more detail below, when ring3506 is attached to the bottom 3501 of container/cup 3500, the annularlip 3508 extends through opening/hole 3502 and is forced radiallyoutwardly and then crimped down onto the container/cup material circlingopening or hole 3502. Annular lip 3508 can be seen crimped aroundopening/hole 3502 in FIG. 35. As best seen in FIG. 36C, the outer edgeregion of ring 3506 may be curled under to form an annular curledportion 3612, which can provide added strength and shape-retention tothe outer edge region of ring 3506. Curled portion 3612 may also fitaround the outside of a ledge of recessed region 3503. Ring 3506 mayalso comprise a tin material, or include a tin plating.

Ring 3506 and opening 3610 are depicted as having a circular or annularshape; however, other shapes and configurations of ring 3506 and opening3610 are contemplated, e.g., polygon, square, triangle, hexagon,pentagon, etc. Various combinations of shapes are also contemplated,e.g., in which the ring 3506 and opening 3610 have different shapes. Theshape of container/cup 3500, opening/hole 3502, the processing equipmentdiscussed below (e.g., in FIGS. 39A-41B), and other elements can bechanged to match the chosen ring configuration. Use of the differentshapes may help improve connection to a preferred dispenser.

FIG. 37 illustrates a representative crushed cup 3700 with a crimpedmagnetic ring 3506, e.g., as used in the embodiment of FIG. 35, to showan example of how unwanted leaks are prevented even when the cup iscrushed or squeezed by an end user or during transport. Cup 3700 may beformed from plastic or like material, e.g., polyethylene terephthalate.In the embodiment shown in FIG. 37, side 3714 depicts a crushedconfiguration of cup 3700, whereas side 3716 depicts for the most partan uncrushed configuration. Bottom surface 3701 includes a recessedregion 3703 that projects into the open interior of cup 3700. Recessedregion 3703 includes an annular ledge 3718 circumscribing opening 3502.Inside surface 3620 of ring 3506 spans and is flush with the innersurface of ledge 3718 at least when cup 3700 is in an uncrushedconfiguration. Annular lip 3508 of ring 3506 is crimped around the inneredge 3722 of bottom surface 3701 and ledge 3718. The crimping of theannular lip 3508 around the inner edge 3722 provides a strong physicalattachment to the relatively small surface area of inner edge 3722circumscribing opening 3502. Inside surface 3620 may have a surface areathat is 2 or 3 times larger than the surface area of the inner edge 3722of bottom surface 3701 that is crimped by the ring, but the surface areaof inside surface 3620 may be even larger as well, including 4 to 9times larger.

When cup 3700 is crushed, ledge 3718 may experience forces constrainingit to a new shape, e.g., causing a portion of ledge 3718 to movedownward relative to the remainder of ledge 3718 as is depicted oncrushed side 3714. At least in part because the attachment pointscomprise a much smaller surface area (compared to a glued ring), ring3506 is relatively independent from the container/cup 3700 and tends toremain flat even when the cup 3700 is partially crushed, e.g. as shownin FIG. 37. Even if the ring moves to an angle with respect to thebottom of the cup, the majority of the flat surface of the ring isunaffected and does not itself deform, but maintains its flatness. Thus,a good fluid tight seal between ring 3506 and cap 3504 is maintained,which prevents incidents of leaks that might otherwise be caused betweenthe ring 3506 and cap 3504 when the cup is crushed or deformed duringuse and/or transport. Further, because the ring 3506 is strongly crimpedto the edge of ledge 3718, leaks are also much less likely to formbetween the ring 3506 and the container/cup 3700 when the cup is crushedor deformed during use and/or transport. In contrast, a glued ringgenerally has a much larger attachment surface area, e.g. all of ledge3718 may be glued or otherwise adhered to the flat inside surface 3620of a ring. Therefore, when a cup/container having a glued ring iscrushed and ledge 3718 is constrained or deformed to a different shape,either the ring tends to be deformed with the ledge 3718 such that cap3504 can no longer form a good fluid tight seal against the ring, or theglued ring tends to separate from the ledge 3718 such that the ring canno longer form a good fluid tight seal against ledge 3718. Thus,incidents of leaks may be more likely to occur when a glued ring isused, whereas the crimped ring embodiments may help to reduce thelikelihood of incidents of leaks.

FIGS. 38A-F illustrate a representative method or process of coupling acontainer connection device or valve to the bottom of a container,including crimping a ring 3806 of magnetic material, such as a ferrousmetal, to a plastic container/vessel/cup 3800, and subsequent placementof a cap 3804 over the crimped magnetic ring. FIG. 38A depicts acontainer/cup 3800 having a bottom surface 3801 including a recessedregion 3803 that projects into the open interior of container/cup 3800.A circular opening/hole 3802 is cut or otherwise formed in the center ofthe recessed region 3803 forming an annular ledge 3818. As shown inFIGS. 38B-C, a magnetic ring 3806 is placed on ledge 3818 with anannular lip 3808 of ring 3806 placed in and lining hole 3802. As shownin FIG. 38D, annular lip 3808 of ring 3806 is pre-crimped around ledge3818 to an oblique angle, e.g., by using one of the pre-crimping toolsshown in FIGS. 39A-B and 40A-B. Preferably, the annular lip 3808 ispre-crimped from being approximately perpendicular to the remainder ofthe ring to an angle between about 20° to 70°, and more preferably to anangle between about 35° and 55°. As shown in FIG. 38E, annular lip 3808is then finished crimped to create a fluid tight seal between ring 3806and at least the inner edge 3822 of ledge 3818, e.g., by using thefinish crimping tool shown in FIGS. 41A-B. After ring 3806 has beenfinished crimped to container/cup 3800, cap 3804 is placed incup/container 3800 over ring 3806 thereby coupling to ring 3806 andsealing the central opening 3810 in ring 3806 by magnetic attraction asshown in FIG. 38F, the seal being fluid tight.

By crimping ring 3806 around the opening/hole 3802, e.g. by crimping itto ledge 3818, in the bottom of the container/cup 3800, the ring 3806 isnot subject to issues arising from the relative flatness variationsbetween containers/cups or other issues associating with adhering aring. Because the ring is crimped directly to the container/cup,variations in the flatness of the container/cup do not compromise thefluid tight seal. In contrast, a glued ring may not form a proper sealif there is too much variation in the flatness of ledge 3818, e.g., thesurfaces may not match sufficiently for the glue to properly adhere.Further, at least because administration of adhesive is avoided andbecause the attachment surface area is relatively small, the time tocouple the rings to the containers/cups is greatly reduced. Otherproblems with adhering, including those discussed above, are alsoeliminated.

Other advantages arise from the use of a single component ring and atwo-step crimping process. For example, using two-piece rings, e.g.,that require a liner piece to be inserted into or coupled with a backingpiece, may increase the risk of leaks and other problems associated withincluding an additional surface between the components; whereas asingle-piece ring attached directly to the container/cup forms a betterseal and has fewer surfaces or sealing areas at risk for forming leaks.Additionally, the two-step process of the crimping method describedherein, i.e., including a pre-crimping step and a finishing crimpingstep, helps to maintain the flatness of the sealing surface. Incontrast, single-step crimping processes are more likely to causevariations or irregularities in the surface of the ring, which mayprevent formation of a good fluid tight seal between the ring and thecap.

FIGS. 39A-B illustrate one method of pre-crimping the magnetic ringusing a rotating tool. Rotating tool 3900 includes a ram 3926 and ananvil portion 3924. Ram 3926 includes an angled pre-crimpingsurface/engagement surface 3928 (e.g., a mandrel surface). Angledengagement surface 3928 may be in the form of a frustoconical shapedsurface, or may be in the form of one or more ridges spaced apart. Theram 3926 and anvil portion 3924 of rotating tool 3900 move toward eachother to the position shown in FIG. 39B, such that ring 3906 is clampedbetween them with the angled surface 3928 of ram 3926 in contact withand forcing at least a portion of the annular lip 3908 into apre-crimped configuration. Ram 3926 is then rotated around itslongitudinal axis thereby forcing the entire annular lip 3908 into apre-crimped configuration. Anvil portion 3924 is configured to fitwithin the open interior of the container/cup. Preferably, ram 3926 isconfigured to fit within a recessed portion in the bottom of thecontainer/cup. Ram 3926 and angled surface 3928 may comprise any hardmetal, including stainless steel, hardened steel, etc. In a preferredembodiment, D12 hardened steel is used. Further, angled surface 3928 ofram 3926 and the engagement surface of the anvil portion 3924 arepreferably smooth and polished to avoid causing irregularities in thesurface of ring 3906 and to maintain the flatness of the sealing surfaceof ring 3906.

FIGS. 40A-B illustrate another method of pre-crimping the magnetic ringusing a non-rotating tool. Non-rotating tool 4000 includes a ram 4026and an anvil portion 4024. Ram 4026 includes an angled pre-crimpingsurface/engagement surface 4028. Angled surface 4028 forms afrustoconical shaped top portion of ram 4026, such that when ram 4026and anvil portion 4024 of non-rotating tool 4000 move toward each otherto the position shown in FIG. 40B, ring 4006 is clamped between them,and angled surface 4028 forces the annular lip 4008 into a pre-crimpedconfiguration. Anvil portion 4024 is configured to fit within the openinterior of the container/cup. Preferably, ram 4026 is configured to fitwithin a recessed portion in the bottom of the container/cup. Ram 4026and angled surface/engagement surface 4028 may also comprise any hardmetal, including stainless steel, hardened steel, etc. In a preferredembodiment, D12 hardened steel is used. Further, angled surface 4028 ofram 4026 and the engagement surface of the anvil portion 4024 arepreferably smooth and polished to avoid causing irregularities in thesurface of ring 4006 and to maintain the flatness of the sealing surfaceof ring 4006.

FIGS. 41A-B illustrate one method of performing a final crimp. Final orfinish crimping tool 4100 includes a ram 4126 and an anvil portion 4124.Ram 4126 includes an engagement surface 4130 that has a larger diameterthan the annular lip 4108 has in a finished crimped configuration. Ram4126 and anvil portion 4124 of finish crimping tool 4100 move towardeach other to the position shown in FIG. 41B, such that ring 4106 isclamped tightly between them, and engagement surface 4130 forces theannular lip 4108 into a finished crimped configuration. The finishedcrimped configuration establishes a fluid tight seal between ring 4106and the container/cup. Anvil portion 4124 is configured to fit withinthe open interior of the container/cup. Preferably, ram 4126 isconfigured to fit within a recessed portion in the bottom of thecontainer/cup. The components of the final crimping tool 4100 may bemade of materials similar to those used in the pre-crimping toolsdiscussed above. Further, engagement surface 4130 of ram 4126 and theengagement surface of the anvil portion 4124 are preferably smooth andpolished to avoid causing irregularities in the surface of ring 4106 andto maintain the flatness of the sealing surface of ring 4106.

In one embodiment, ram 3926, ram 4026, and ram 4126 are removable andinterchangeable parts used with a single crimping tool. The crimpingtool includes an anvil portion and removable/interchangeable ramportions. A pre-crimping ram, e.g., ram 3926 or ram 4026, may beattached and used opposite the anvil portion. The pre-crimping ram isthen removed and replaced with a finish crimping ram, e.g., ram 4126,that is attached and used opposite the same anvil portion.

As discussed above, FIGS. 35-41B show embodiments of the invention usinga ring attached to a container/vessel/cup by crimping. The features,benefits, and methods described with regard to these embodiments arerepresentative and may be used in combination with other inventions andfeatures of other embodiments described herein. For example, a containerconnection device using a crimped magnetic ring as described may be usedin combination with the fluid containers, dispensing systems, fluidtransfer assemblies, and other systems and assemblies described herein.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrate a representative embodiment of a containerconnection device 400 including an upper section and a lower sectioncapable of connecting together at a bottom of a container. FIG. 4Aillustrates a cut-away view of the representative embodiment of theupper section and lower section in an unassembled state, while FIG. 4Billustrates a cut-away view of the representative embodiment in anassemble state with the upper section and lower section attachedtogether and to the container around the bottom opening. The attachablesections of the container connection device 400 permit removal of thecontainer connection device for cleaning or use with other containers.The upper and lower sections 402, 404 may be threaded to engage oneanother through an opening 408 in the bottom of the container 406. Thesections may alternatively be joined by other means, such as gluing orbonding. The container connection device may alternatively be integrateddirectly into the container bottom.

In one embodiment, an upper section 402 may couple to a lower section tocreate the container connection device 400. A lower section 404 mayinclude a generally cylindrical shaft 410 that has a diameter smallerthan opening 408 in the bottom of a container 406. The diameter of theopening 408 and the shaft 410 may be generally the same size to create asnug fit to assist in leak reduction and proper alignment between thecontainer connection device 400 and the container 406. The shaft 410 mayalternatively be relatively smaller than opening 408 in the container406 to permit alternatively sized container connection devices to becoupled to the container bottom. The inner diameter of the shaft 410 maybe sized and shaped to accommodate the dispenser connection device asexplained further below. The outside of the shaft 410 may includethreads 412 to engage the upper section 402. The upper section 402 maybe generally cylindrical in shape with an inner opening 414 includingthreads 416 to engage the threads 412 of the lower section 404.

The lower section 404 may also include a flange 418 at the base of shaft410. The flange 418 may have an outer diameter greater than the opening408 to provide a surface to engage the container 406 bottom. The flange418 may include a seal member 420, such as an O-ring or gasket. The seal420 may press against the bottom side of the container 406 when theupper section 402 engages the lower section 404 to create a fluid tightseal. The upper section 402 may also contain a seal member 422 on abottom side to press against a top surface of the container 406.Therefore, a portion of the container 406 may be sandwiched between sealmembers on the upper section 402 and the lower section 404 of thecontainer connection device.

The container connection device 400 includes a cap 430 including amagnetic material and shape configured to mate with the upper section402. In one embodiment, the upper section 402 includes a rim 428 with aninner surface that mates with an outer surface of the cap 430. Ofcourse, in alternate embodiments the rim could have an outer surface tomate with an inner surface of the cap. The rim 428 may be a generallycylindrical rim with an inclined inner edge to direct the cap 430 to acentral position over the inner opening 414 of the upper section 402.The inclined edge permits a space to form between the upper section 402and the cap 430, when the dispenser connection device presses the capaway from the upper section. In one embodiment, the upper section 402includes a magnet 424 to attract magnet 432 in the cap 430 to bias thecap in a closed position. The two magnets 424 and 432 may be rings ordiscrete magnetic pieces coupled to the respective sections. The magnetsmay be adhered, bonded, integrally formed, molded, or otherwise attachedto the respective sections to attract the cap to the upper section.

Alternatively, the material used for the upper section and/or the capmay be magnetic. In one embodiment, the cap 430 may include a recess 434to mate with the dispenser connection device (not shown). The recess 434may receive a portion of the dispenser connection device that opens thevalve by pushing upward on the cap 430 and providing a space between thecap 430 and upper section 402. When the dispenser connection device isremoved, the magnetic attraction between the cap and upper sectioncloses the valve, and the rim of the upper section ensures properalignment. The upper section and/or the cap may include a seal, such asan O-ring or gasket, to further prevent leaks when the valve is closed.

In one embodiment, the container connection device 400 may include oneor more magnets. As described above, the upper section 402 may include amagnet to attract a cap 430 to act as a valve for the containerconnection device 400. In one embodiment, the lower section 404 mayinclude a magnet 426 to couple the container connection device 400 tothe dispenser connection device (not shown). The magnet 426 may beglued, adhered, bonded, integrally molded, or otherwise attached to thelower section 404, for example in the flange 418. The magnet 426 mayattract another magnet or magnetic material included in a base orsection of the dispenser connection device to stabilize the containerduring filling. The container connection device 400 may also include oneor more seals to provide a fluid tight connection between the containerconnection device and the dispenser connection device. For example,lower section 404 may include a seal 436 to couple to a dispenserconnection device. Upper section 402 may include seal 438 and/or cap 430may include seal 440 to provide a fluid tight connection between the cap430 and the upper section 402 when the container connection device 400is in a closed position. Seals may be any sealing device known to thosewith skill in the art, such as O-rings or gaskets.

FIGS. 5A-B illustrate a representative embodiment of a containerconnection device capable of connecting to a bottom of a containeraccording to aspects of the design. FIG. 5A is the container connectiondevice in a closed, fluid tight position, while FIG. 5B is the samecontainer connection device illustrated in an open position. When thevalve is closed, a liquid tight seal is created to prevent leakage whilethe container is filled. When the valve is open, liquid may betransferred to the container from another source. The upper section 502may be joined with the lower section 504 to permit the containerconnection device 500 to easily couple/decouple from a container. Theupper section 502 may be modified so that the cap 530 is not freelydisassociated from the upper section 502, as shown in FIG. 4B anddescribed above.

In one embodiment, the upper section 502 may include a generallycylindrical rim 528 that circumferentially surrounds a cap 530. The cap530 is permitted to translate up and down a longitudinal axis of therim, but is prevented from being fully decoupled from the upper section502. For example, the cap 530 may be a generally cylindrical button witha flange circumferentially around a central portion. The flange may restwithin an indention within an inner surface of the upper section 502.The height of the indention is larger than the height of the flange sothat the cap may translate within a distance defined between where theflange contacts the two subscribing surfaces of the indention. In oneembodiment, the upper section 502 further includes apertures 536 thatcreate a fluid flow path when the cap 530 is in an open position. Forexample, when the cap 530 is in an up or open position, a path iscreated between the shaft of the lower section 504 and the apertures 536of the upper section 502. When the cap 530 is in a down or closedposition, the path is sealed. The cap 530, upper section 502, and/orlower section 504 may include seals to prevent fluid leaks when the capis in a closed position. The cap 530, upper section 502, and/or lowersection 504 may include magnets to bias the cap 530 in a closedposition.

FIGS. 6-9B illustrate representative embodiments of a dispenserconnection device. As described above, the dispenser connection devicemay be designed to couple to a container connection device. Thedispenser connection device may connect to a fluid source, such as a kegor soda fountain syrup and carbonation containers. The dispenserconnection device may include additional features, as discussed in FIG.1, above, such as for example, a base, basin, drain, advertisement area,lights, sounds, etc. Different embodiments of the container connectiondevice and the dispenser connection device may be modified to includefeatures of the different embodiments. Representative embodiments of thedispenser connection device are described below in terms ofcorresponding to representative container connection devices, but thesedevices may be mixed or altered as apparent to one skilled in the art.

FIG. 6 illustrates a representative dispenser connection device 600according to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the one illustrated in FIGS. 4A-B.The dispenser connection device 600 includes a rigid member or nozzle602 including a passage along a longitudinal axis and one or moreapertures 604 through a sidewall of the rigid member or nozzle 602. Thepassage of the rigid member or nozzle is in fluid communication with afluid source. The nozzle 602 is designed to open a container connectiondevice 400 by pushing against a valve member thereof such as cap 430.The top of the nozzle 602 may be contoured or shaped to mate with arecess 434 of the cap 430 so the cap is held by the nozzle. Thedispenser connection device 600 may include a magnet or magneticmaterial to secure the container connection device 400. For example, thedispenser connection device 600 may include a platform 606 including amagnetic ring 608 that couples to the magnet 426 of the lower section404 of container connection device 400. The dispenser connection device600 may also include a seal 610 to create a fluid tight connectionbetween the dispenser connection device 600 and the container connectiondevice 400. Collar 612 may be coupled between platform 606 and nozzle602 to allow the platform to translate along a longitudinal axis of thenozzle 602.

FIGS. 7A-B illustrate a representative dispenser connection device 700according to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the one illustrated in FIGS. 4A-B.FIG. 7A illustrates the dispenser connection device 700 in a closedposition, while FIG. 7B illustrates the dispenser connection device 700in an open position. Similar to FIG. 6, the dispenser connection device700 may include a nozzle 702 with an aperture 704 to create a fluid pathbetween the fluid source and dispenser device to the container. Thedispenser connection device may also include a platform 706 including aseal 708 to prevent fluid leaks between the dispenser connection device700 and the container connection device.

In one embodiment, the dispenser connection device may include a collar710. Collar 710 may be used to retain platform 706 to the dispenserconnection device 700. Additionally, collar 710 may be used to covernozzle 702 when the dispenser is not in use, thereby potentiallyreducing leaks or reducing contamination or debris from entering thedispenser. The platform 706 may also include a rim 712 that may be usedto seal nozzle 702 when the dispenser is not in use. Rim 712 may includean angled exterior circumferential wall so that a top edge is at areduced diameter than the lower edge. The reduced top diameter mayassist in properly aligning the dispenser connection device with thecontainer connection device.

FIG. 8 illustrates a representative dispenser connection device 850according to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 3. Thedispenser connection device 850 may mate with container bottom 300 toseal the connection between the fluid dispenser and container duringfilling. The dispenser connection device 850 may be coupled to acountertop or other serving platform (not shown). The dispenserconnection device 850 may be coupled to a liquid storage container, aconduit to the liquid storage container, or the like.

In one embodiment, the dispenser connection device 850 may include anozzle 852. Nozzle 852 may be a generally cylindrical shaped spoutdimensioned to fit within hole 302. Nozzle 852 may be used to pushagainst cap 304 to break its seal with ring 306. Nozzle 852 may includeone or more apertures 854 that permits liquid to flow through anddispense into a container (not shown). The beverage dispenser mayinclude a switch to permit fluid flow once a container is coupled to thedispenser connection device. Nozzle 852 may include a disc 862 along itstop edge. Disc 862 may be used to provide advertising space, or may beused to identify the beverage coupled to the beverage dispenser. Forexample, the disc 862 may replace the existing beer tap used at manyfacilities today to indicate the types of beverages and may have othernostalgic possibilities, such as give away prizes when a brand isretired.

In one embodiment, dispenser connection device 850 may include platform856 to assist in properly aligning the container with the dispenser.Platform 856 may be shaped to center and couple the container to nozzle852. As an example, an outer edge of platform 856 may be generallycylindrical in shape to conform to an inner surface of a bottom rim on acontainer. The outer edge of platform 856 may be slightly tapered toguide the bottom rim of a container into place and properly align thecontainer with nozzle 852. Alternatively, platform may include an upperrim (not shown) that an outer edge of a container may fit into. Theupper rim may be stepped to properly align various sized containers withnozzle 852.

In one embodiment, to prevent leaks from the fluid dispenser when it isnot coupled to a container, apertures 854 may be closed by platform 856.Platform 856 may be used to seal the apertures 854 when not in use. Inone embodiment, platform 856 circumferentially surrounds apertures 854,when in a closed position. The platform 856 may slide axially on nozzle852 permitting the platform 856 to expose apertures 854 during filling.During use, the container bottom 300 may push on platform 856, whilepermitting nozzle 852 to enter through hole 302, and therefore exposingapertures 854. Platform 856 may return to a closed position afterfilling. Platform 856 may move under a biasing force, such as a spring.Alternatively, platform 856 may return to a closed position under theinfluence of magnetic attraction between the platform and container, asthe container is raised to remove it from the nozzle. The platform 856and or nozzle 852 may include a friction connection, including a detentand flange, to secure the platform in a closed position with respect tothe nozzle. This connection may be overcome, and thereby open the flowpath of the nozzle, by the downward force of the container on theplatform. In one embodiment, the described sealing platform may be usedas the valve to initiate flow between the beverage dispenser and thecontainer, thereby permitting fluid flow as soon as the apertures 854 ofnozzle 852 are exposed.

The dispenser connection device may include a magnet or magneticmaterial to attract a corresponding magnet or magnetic material withinthe container connection device. For example, platform 856 may include aring 864 that includes a magnetic material that may be used to securethe container to the platform 856 during filling. The ring 864 of theplatform 856 may be used to attract ring 306 on the bottom of container300. In one embodiment, disc 862 may include a magnetic material to holdcap 304 of container connection device when the container is placed onthe nozzle 852, and in an open position.

Platform 856 and/or nozzle 852 may include one or more seals for a fluidtight connection between nozzle and platform and container. For example,nozzle may include a seal 858 to seal an upper edge of apertures 854,while platform 856 may include seal 860 to seal the lower edge ofapertures 854, while in a closed position. Platform 856 may include aseal 866 on an upper surface to create a seal between container andplatform, when in an open position. Seals may include a rubber O-ring orother gasket material for maintaining a fluid tight seal.

Platform 856 and/or nozzle 852 may be shaped to prevent platform 856from sliding off the end of nozzle 852. For example, an upper edge ofplatform 856 may have a larger inside diameter that rests against a topof nozzle 852, such as for example at seal 858. The top of nozzle 852may have a greater outside diameter to match the larger inside diameterof platform 856. The greater outside diameter of nozzle 852 may preventthe platform 856 from sliding off the upper edge of nozzle. The seal 858may be used as the greater outside diameter of nozzle 852 to retain theplatform 856 to the nozzle 852, while creating a seal when nozzle andplatform are in a closed position. This embodiment permits easyinstallation, as the platform 856 may slide over the top of nozzle 852for installation, before seal 858 is added.

FIG. 9 illustrates a representative dispenser connection device 900according to embodiments of the invention that may be coupled to acontainer connection device. FIG. 9A illustrates the dispenserconnection device 900 in a closed position, and FIG. 9B illustrates thedispenser connection device 900 in an open position. Dispenserconnection device 900 may include a nozzle 902 for filling a containerthrough a bottom thereof. Nozzle 902 may include apertures 908 to createa fluid flow path between the beverage dispenser and the container.Dispenser connection device 900 includes a nozzle 902 and platform 904surrounding the nozzle, the platform including an opening 912 throughwhich the nozzle is permitted to translate. The platform is attacheddirectly to a collar 906, which is shown in FIGS. 9A-B as a flexiblemember, which covers apertures 908 of the nozzle in a dispenserconnection device closed position, and which uncovers apertures 908 in adispenser connection device open position.

Collar 906, in addition to being made of a flexible material to permittranslation of the platform 904 with respect to the nozzle 902, may beformed of a liquid-tight material, such as a rubber or plastic, in orderto prevent leaks from the nozzle 902. In a dispenser connection deviceclosed position, the platform 904 opening is positioned generallycoincident with the end surface of the nozzle. In a dispenser connectiondevice open position, the collar flexes outward to translate theplatform 904 with respect to the nozzle 902, along a longitudinal axisof the nozzle 902, such that the nozzle 902 moves through the opening912 of the platform 904.

Collar 906 may be used in place of or in addition to seals, as describedin FIG. 6. Alternatively, collar 906 may cover at least a portion ofapertures 908 and prevent fluid flow when not in use. Collar 906 may becoupled between dispenser connection device 900 and platform 904 byvarious means. In one embodiment, the dispenser connection device 900and the platform 904 include indentions around a lip. In such anembodiment the collar 906 correspondingly includes a protrusiondimensioned to fit within the indention and over the corresponding lipof the dispenser connection device 900 and the platform 904. The lip andindention may be used to frictionally hold the collar 906 tight againstthe platform 904 and dispenser connection device 900, creating a fluidtight seal. Alternatively, or in addition, adhesives may be used tocouple the collar 906 to the platform 904.

The platform 904 may include a rim 910 that properly positions thecontainer relative to the nozzle 902. The rim 910 may be a fork stylecoupler, including one or more prongs, or may be a solid rim, which mayinclude a stepped bottom to accommodate various sized containers, orcombinations thereof. Other embodiments, as described herein or known toone skilled in the art, may alternatively be used to position or holdthe container. A seal 914 may be included on an upper surface of thebase of the platform 904 to create a seal with the container. Seal 914may circumferentially surround opening 912.

Dispenser connection device 900 may include a magnet or magnet materialto couple to a container connection device. For example, platform 904may also include a ring 916 incorporating or formed from a magnetic orferrous material to secure the container connection device to theplatform during filling. In one embodiment, a top of the nozzle 902includes disc 918 that may be used to hold cap of the containerconnection device (not shown) during filling. The disc 918 may include amagnet or magnetic material to attract the cap and/or may be contouredto mate with a corresponding contour of the cap. In one embodiment, thedisc 918 may include information, such as, for example, the type orbrand of the beverage served from the dispenser, advertising materialsetc.

FIGS. 10-11 illustrate representative embodiments of a containerconnection device coupled to a dispenser connection device. When theattachment is made, the container connection device and the dispenserconnection device engage to create a fluid path between the containerand a fluid source. The container may then be filled from a bottomportion thereof. When the container is removed from the dispenser, thecontainer connection device is disengaged from the dispenser connectiondevice and seals the container from leaking.

FIG. 10 illustrates the container connection device of FIGS. 4A-Bcoupled to the dispenser connection device of FIG. 6 in an open positionfor fluid flow between a fluid source and a container. When connected,the nozzle 602 pushes against cap 430 to overcome the magneticattraction between the upper section magnet 424 and the cap magnet 432to expose the aperture 604 to the interior of the container 406. Thecontainer 406 is also stabilized during this process by the magnet 608in the platform 606 as it attracts the magnet 426 in the lower section404 of the container connection device. As shown, the nozzle 602 head isshaped to compliment the recess 434 of the cap 430 to maintain the capin proper alignment during the filling process.

FIG. 11 illustrates the container connection device 500 of FIGS. 5A-Bcoupled to dispenser connection device 1100 in an open position forfluid flow between a fluid source and the container. When connected, thenozzle 1102 pushes against cap 530 to overcome the closed bias betweenthe upper section 502 and the cap 530, thereby uncovering the apertures536 of the rim 528. In this embodiment, the cap may be biased closed bya magnetic attract, spring, or other biasing force suitable for thedevice.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a representative dispensing systemaccording to embodiments of the invention, including a container with acontainer connection device and a dispenser with a dispenser connectiondevice, each including various features described herein. A personskilled in the art will be able to combine these and other featuresdescribed herein into different embodiments, all of which are within thescope of the invention. The system 1200 includes a container withcontainer connection device 1202, as well as a dispenser with dispenserconnection device 1204.

In one embodiment, a container 1206 includes a container connectiondevice 1202. The container connection device 1202 includes a cap 1208,cap housing magnets 1210, seal 1212, rim 1214, rim housing magnets 1216,seal 1218, bottom section 1222, and bottom housing magnets 1220. Themagnets 1210, 1216, 1220 may be one or more magnetic pieces that fitwithin various indentions of the container connection device, solidmagnetic rings, or material incorporated into the respective componentsof the container connection device. Seals 1212, 1218 may be any sealingdevice, such as an O-ring or rubber gasket.

In one embodiment, cap housing magnets 1210 comprise five neodymiummagnets 1210 equally spaced around a circumference of the cap 1208 andheld in place by seal 1212. Seal 1212 may be a rubber gasket generallydisc-shaped to create a seal at the cap in a closed position. Rim 1214includes apertures to permit fluid flow when the cap is in an openposition, and includes rim housing magnets 1216, comprising fiveneodymium magnets corresponding to the five cap housing magnets,together operating to bias the cap 1208 in a closed position. Seal 1218seals the rim 1214 to the container 1206. The bottom section 1222couples to the rim 1214 and may include neodymium magnets 1220 toattract the dispenser 1204.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the dispenser includes a dispenserconnection device 1204, including a first seal 1224 for a filler valve1226, a filler valve magnet 1228, a nozzle 1230, a collar 1232 betweenthe filler valve 1226 and nozzle 1230, and a second seal 1231. The firstand second seals 1224 and 1231 may be an O-ring, gasket, or other deviceto create a liquid tight seal between the dispenser connection device1204 and the container connection device 1202.

In one embodiment, nozzle 1230 may be a shaft that enters through thecontainer connection device 1202 to push against cap 1208 and create afluid pathway between the dispenser and the container. The nozzle mayinclude one or more apertures to permit fluid flow therethrough. Thefiller valve 1226 may move along a longitudinal axis of the nozzle 1230to open and close the fluid flow path through the nozzle. The fillervalve 1226 may be contoured, including a rim to mate with the bottomsection 1222 of the container connection device 1202. This connectionpermits the dispenser connection device 1204 and container connectiondevice 1202 to move together during the coupling/decoupling to reduceleaks. Magnet 1228 may be a neodymium magnetic ring coupled to thefiller valve 1226, which is designed to attract magnets 1220 of thebottom section 1222 of the container connection device 1202, and furtherensures that the container connection device 1202 moves with thedispenser connection device 1204 during use. The magnetic attraction mayfurther stabilize container 1206 during the filling process. The collar1232 couples the filler valve 1226 to the nozzle 1230, permitting thefiller valve 1226 to translate along the nozzle while remaining coupledto the nozzle during use. The collar 1232 may be formed from a flexiblerubber material that is shaped to easily compress, but which expandsback to its pre-compressed shape to provide a bias for the filler valve1226 to close nozzle 1230. The collar 1232 may further provideprotection against leaks during use.

In one embodiment, the dispenser may further include other features suchas a basin, drain, lights, etc. For example, the dispenser may include ahousing 1234 for switches, lights, or other features. The housing may beused as an advertising or identification space, such as to identify thetype or brand of beverage coupled to the dispenser. Housing 1234 mayinclude LED lights that illuminate the liquid during the fillingprocess. Pressure switches may be incorporated in the housing to triggerthe LED lights or may be used to activate the filling process when acontainer is detected on the housing. The LED lights may alternativelyor also be housed around the basin or other parts of the dispenserconnection device. The dispenser may also include a basin 1236 to catchany overflow during the filling process. The basin 1236 may be used tointentionally overflow a foaming beverage in order to remove excess foamfrom the top thereof. The basin 1236 may include a drain 1238 to permiteasy clean up after use. The dispenser may include conduit 1240 tocouple the dispenser to a fluid source. The conduit may be a manifoldpermitting attachment to multiple fluid sources, thereby permitting thedispenser to be used for multiple beverages. In such an embodiment, thedesired beverage may be chosen by the user via a switch or rotation of amanifold selection member.

Any of the above described embodiments of the dispensing system andcombinations thereof may further include a flushing device to removeliquid from the dispensing system between uses. FIGS. 13-14 illustraterepresentative flushing devices according to embodiments of theinvention. A fluid conduit may be coupled to the dispenser directly orindirectly, such as through a manifold. A valve may be coupled betweenthe fluid conduit and the nozzle. A water or flushing line may also becoupled to the dispenser through a separate valve. The flushing line mayalternatively be coupled to the manifold as one of the liquid sourcescoupled to the dispenser. Once the liquid of choice, such as beer, ispoured, the valve coupling the beer line and the container is closed.The valve coupling the dispenser and the flushing line is then opened toflush the dispenser and connections. A drain may be included to drainthe flushing fluid (e.g., water) from the connections. A new containermay then be connected and filled without being comingled with theprevious liquid choice. Preferably, water may be used to flush thedispenser and coupling devices. However, other substances may be used,such as, cleaning agents, solutions, alcohol, or forced air, to removethe previous contents from the coupling devices.

FIG. 13 illustrates a representative flushing device 1300 according toembodiments of the invention. The dispenser may include a nozzle 1302 aspreviously described and may be connected to a liquid conduit 1304, suchas a beer line. The dispenser may also include a valve 1306 between theliquid conduit 1304 and the nozzle 1302 to start and stop the flow ofthe desired liquid. A flow meter 1308 may also be coupled to the liquidconduit 1304. Once a container is connected to the dispenser, the valve1306 may be opened, permitting the desired liquid to flow from theliquid conduit 1304 into the container, through the nozzle 1302. Thevalve 1306 may be closed to stop the flow of fluid, when the containeris full. A flushing line 1308 may also be coupled to the dispenser whichconnects the nozzle 1302 to a flushing source, such as water. A flushingvalve 1310 may be included between the flushing line 1308 and the nozzleto permit the flushing fluid to clean the nozzle 1302 after the fillingprocess. The valve 1306 and flushing valve 1310 may be manually orautomatically operated. In one embodiment, the valve 1306 and theflushing valve 1310 are electromagnetic valves that include a steel ballheld out of the fluid flow path when the valve is opened by anelectromagnet. The steel ball is then permitted to obstruct the flowpath when the valve is closed.

A drain valve 1312 may be used in conjunction with the flushing valve todrain the flushing fluid from the dispenser. In one embodiment,activating the flushing valve 1310, which permits flushing fluid to flowthrough the dispenser, also activates a drain valve 1312. Therefore, thedrain valve 1312 may provide an alternate path for the flushing fluidafter rinsing the nozzle 1302, so that flushing fluid does not exit fromthe dispenser. Alternatively, the flushing fluid may be permitted toexit the dispenser through the nozzle, as the chosen liquid would withthe container in place. In this embodiment, the dispenser may include abasin and drain to catch and dispose of the flushing fluid afterrinsing.

In one embodiment, the method to flush the dispenser after use mayinclude: (1) coupling a container to the dispenser; (2) opening a valveto permit fluid to flow between a liquid conduit and the container; (3)closing a valve to stop fluid flow between the liquid conduit and thecontainer; (4) removing the container from the dispenser; (5) opening asecond valve to the flushing line; (6) flushing the dispenser; and (7)closing the second valve to the flushing line.

FIGS. 14A-B illustrate one embodiment of a flushing device 1400 toremove liquid from the dispensing system after use. In this embodiment,the liquid to the dispenser is removed from the dispenser connectiondevice without a flushing fluid, reducing the likelihood that the liquidwill become warm and stale at the dispensing location. By removing theliquid from the dispenser, it may be refrigerated along a conduit orbelow the dispensing location. Operation of the flushing device 1400 isdescribed below.

First, a container (not shown), is placed on a dispenser 1402, whichactivates a pressure switch. The pressure switch opens a first valve1404. A second valve 1412 is then opened to create a fluid flow pathfrom the liquid conduit 1418 to the container. The second valve 1412 maybe opened by an operator manually activating the valve by using aswitch. During filling, a first collar 1406 and a second collar 1408remain closed. A spring 1410, such as a rubber band, may be used to biasthe collars in a closed position. The second valve 1412 may then bemanually or automatically closed to shut off the fluid flow to thecontainer. The container may then be removed from the dispenser 1402,deactivating the pressure switch. The pressure switch then turns thefirst valve 1404 off and simultaneously turns the second valve 1412 on,so the liquid line is still closed to the dispenser. However, liquid mayreach the second collar 1408 and fill with fluid from the fluid line1418 causing it to expand. The expanding second collar 1408 causes thefirst collar 1406 to draw the liquid from the dispenser down into thefirst collar 1406, while closing the seal 1414. The seal 1414 mayprevent contaminants from entering the dispensing system while acontainer is not being filled. A guide rod 1416 may be used to permitthe first and second collar to translate between an expanded andcollapsed position appropriately.

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary dispensing system including variousembodiments as described herein, including the flushing device. FIG. 15illustrates a representative dispensing system including features asdescribed and illustrated in FIGS. 4A-B and FIG. 6. Features with likenumbers represent similar components as described above. The containerconnection device includes an upper section 402 and lower section 404threaded together through container 406. Seals 422 and 420, such asO-rings may be used to create a liquid tight seal between the container406 and the container connection device. A cap 430 may create a valvefor the container connection device. Seals 436, 438, 440, such as rubbergaskets, may be used to create liquid tight connections between the cap430 and upper section 402, and the lower section 404 with the dispenserplatform 606. Magnetic rings 432 and 424 bias the cap 430 closed, whilemagnetic rings 426 and 608 couple the container connection device to thedispenser connection device. Nozzle 602 pushes against cap 430 toovercome the magnetic attraction and open the valve of the containerconnection device. The magnets 432 and 424 attract one another; evenwhile the nozzle 602 is pushing the cap 430 open, the attraction retainsthe cap 430 on the tip of the nozzle 602 during filling. Contouring ofthe cap 430 and nozzle 602 may assist in properly retaining the caprelative to the container connection device during the filling process.

In one embodiment, a tether, coil, spring or other device may be used toensure the cap remains aligned with the bottom of the container andproperly closes after the nozzle is removed. The cap may be made of agenerally magnetic material, incorporate magnetic material, or mayinclude a separate magnetic ring, or magnetic pieces to create thedownward force. The corresponding magnet may be located inside oroutside of the pitcher, as long as it draws the cap closed. Otherembodiments may use other forces to close the cap, such as gravity orscrewing.

In one embodiment, another pair of magnets may be used between thecontainer and the dispenser. The container may use a separate magnet toattract the dispenser or it may use the same magnet used to attract thecap. These magnets may be used to stabilize the container while it isbeing filled. Other embodiments may use other forces to stabilize thepitcher, such as screwing or a mated fit between pitcher and base.

In one embodiment, the dispensing system may include decorative devices.For example LED lights 1502 may be included in housing 1504 and mayflash or light up in various patterns depending on what liquid isselected, what container 406 is connected (e.g., pitcher or glass),whether the container is properly connected, etc. Also using light underthe filling beverage to illuminate it may make the beverage look moreappealing or appetizing. For example, an amber light under a darker beermay change the appearance thereof to appeal to a wider consumer base.Changing the tint of the light, or the color completely for differentbeers or certain drinks can be achieved. The light or lights may turn onwhen the pitcher is being filled, and may turn off when the pitcher isremoved from the dispenser through various electrical, mechanical, ormagnetic means. Alternatively, the lights could be modified to projectimages, messages or advertising on the container. The container 406 mayalso increase customer attention by rotating or moving as it fills.Housing 1504 may also include switches 1506 to control the dispenser orlights.

In one embodiment, the dispenser may be coupled to a fluid source. Thedispenser may be coupled to one or more fluid sources through a manifold1508 in order to couple multiple liquids to the same dispenser. A switchmay be used to choose the desired liquid.

In one embodiment, a flushing device may be coupled to the dispenser.For example, a flushing line 1510 may be used to rinse the connectionsbetween uses. This may permit various beverages to be connected to thesame dispenser and reduce or prevent unintentional contamination orintermixing of beverages. This may also prevent the beverage fromsitting in connection lines and becoming warm or stale as discussedabove. A drain valve 1512 may be include to provide an alternate pathfor the flushing fluid after rinsing. Drain lines 1514 may be coupled tothe drain valve 1514 and the basin 1516 to remove any overflow fluidduring filling or flushing fluid after cleaning.

In one embodiment, a lever in the appearance of a beer tap handle may beused as a switch to start and stop the filling of a container from thedispensing system. Alternative embodiments include other devices besidesa tap handle to initiate the pour, including pushing a button to open avalve, turning a knob, or other devices known to start the flow of apressurized liquid. The initiation of fluid flow may also be automaticby use of a pressure switch or by opening the fluid flow path throughthe connection of the container connection device with the dispenserconnection device. A timer may alternatively be activated to fill thecontainer depending on a programmed container size, such as a pint orpitcher. Other automatic devices, such as pressure switches may also beused to automatically turn off the fluid flow when the container isfilled. Utilizing embodiments of the device and assembly may make taphandles purely aesthetic. The flow may be controlled by an electronicswitch or other device. Therefore, the tap handles can be arranged anyway based on aesthetics, utility, or personal preference.

Embodiments of the present system may be used to create layered shots ofalcohol. By dispensing through the bottom of a glass, all one has to dois arrange the parts in the order they would like them to be in, fillingthe shot glass first from the bottom with the part that will be on thetop. The assembly may be adjusted to reduce the flow through the fillingdevice, depending on the application. Therefore, if the filler is usedfor shots of alcohol, the flow may be reduced to permit the liquor toseep into the shot glass. However, the flow may be increased if thedevice is used for beer, soda, or other beverages. The nozzle may alsobe designed with one or more apertures with associated dedicatedconduits at various heights to permit filling by multiple liquids at thesame time. For example, this embodiment may be used for layered beerssuch as a black and tan, or may be used with flavored sodas such ascherry coke.

A container connection device as disclosed herein may also be used witha removal system to drain the contents of a container after it has beenfilled by a dispenser. The removal system may be used, for example, as a“beer bong” to rapidly drain the contents from the container. Theremoval system may be coupled to the container connection device torapidly remove the contents through a bottom of the container. Forexample, FIGS. 16A-B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a removalsystem used with a container connection device as described herein.

FIGS. 16A-B illustrate an exemplary removal system 1600 used to dispensea beverage from a container 1602 through a bottom 1604 of the container.Generally, a rapid drain attachment 1616 may be coupled to a container1602 to drain the contents through its bottom 1604. A conduit 1606 maybe coupled to the rapid drain attachment 1616, and may be used totransfer the liquid from the container 1602 to a desired location. Thecoupling end of the rapid drain attachment 1616 may include a platform1608 that aligns and interacts with a valve in the bottom of thecontainer 1602. The interaction between the platform 1608 and the valvemay permit fluid flow during removal, and may provide a seal between therapid drain attachment 1616 and the container 1602 when connected. Thevalve may be a cap 1610 covering a hole or opening in the bottom of thecontainer 1602. The cap 1610 may be normally biased closed to preventthe liquid from exiting the container 1602. The rapid drain attachment1616 and cap 1610 may interact when coupled to permit liquid to flowbetween the container 1602 and conduit 1606.

In one embodiment, the cap 1610 may include a magnetic material orferrous metal. To bias the cap normally closed, the bottom 1604 ofcontainer 1602 may include a ring 1612 that may include a magneticmaterial or ferrous metal that attracts the magnetic material in the cap1610. A sealing feature (not shown), such as a gasket, may be used toensure a liquid tight seal when the cap 1610 is seated in place underthe influence of the ring 1612.

The rapid drain attachment 1616 may interact with cap 1610 to dispensethe beverage from the container 1602. Rapid drain attachment 1616 mayinclude a conduit 1606 to transport a liquid from the container 1602 toa desired location. The conduit 1606 may include a flexible portion 1614to permit easy configuration of the fluid flow path to the desiredlocation. The conduit 1606 may interact with the platform 1608 of theremoval system 1600 in order to fill the container 1602. When the rapiddrain attachment 1616 is coupled to the container 1602, fingers 1618 maybe used to raise the cap 1610 of the container 1602, permitting liquidto flow between the container 1602 to the conduit 1606. In oneembodiment, the rapid drain attachment 1616 may include a platform 1608to seal the connection between the rapid drain attachment 1616 and thecontainer 1602. The platform 1608 may include a ring 1620 that includesa magnetic material or ferrous metal to secure the ring 1612 of thecontainer 1602, and thereby securing the connection of the rapid drainattachment 1616 to the container 1602 during content removal. Platform1608 may additionally include a seal, such as a gasket, to reduceleaking between the rapid drain attachment 1616 and the container 1602.

The rapid drain attachment 1616 may be used after filling the container1602, as described below. The container may be disconnected from thebeverage dispenser and coupled to the rapid drain attachment 1616. Inuse, when the rapid drain attachment 1616 is coupled to the container1602, fingers 1618 may push open cap 1610 of container. The rapid drainattachment 1616 may then be used to rapidly remove the container 1602contents from a bottom 1604 of the container 1602, and potentiallythrough a conduit 1606, which may further include a flexible portion1614. As an example, the rapid drain attachment may be used with thebeverage container, such as a pitcher, to create a “beer bong.” Rapiddrain attachment 1616 may further include an opening mechanism totrigger the fingers 1618 to open valve in the container 1602 and permitfluid flow out of the bottom 1604 of container 1602. The rapid drainattachment 1616 may alternatively or additionally include a valve at anoutlet to stop the flow out of conduit 1606.

FIG. 17 illustrates a representative front, top, right perspective viewof a valve of a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.Valve 1700 may include a housing body 1701, valve block 1709, and lowerblock 1711. Slide rod 1702 is coupled to the lower block 1711 andpositioned within a recessed area of the lower block 1701. The recessedarea is shaped to receive the slide rod 1702. The valve 1700 may alsoinclude a nozzle 1705 to couple the valve 1700 to a fluid container (notshown), a valve actuator assembly 1710 to transition the valve 1700 froma close position to an open position, and a fitting 1721 to couple thevalve 1700 to a fluid source (not shown). One or more apertures 1751 ofthe valve 1700 serves as back pressure relief holes/vent holes. Thesevent holes allow the back pressure to be released from the filler if thecup is removed prematurely from the nozzle, and also permit leftoverfluid to drain while the coupler is in the close position. As will bedescribed in FIG. 25, the fluid may flow from the valve 1700 to thefluid container via a second set of apertures 2550. For referencingpurposes, axis 1750 is illustrated and positioned through the valve 1700and a center of the nozzle 1705 connecting longitudinally the nozzle1705 with the housing body 1701, the valve block 1709 and the lowerblock 1711.

FIG. 18 illustrates a representative top plan view of a valve of adispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments. In this view,the fitting 1721 is off to the right of the axis 1750. The valve 1700may include one or more sensors such as, for example, container sensor1714 to detect the presence of the fluid container and fluid sensor 1808to keep track of the fluid flowing through the valve 1700. In oneembodiment, the valve 1700 may be used with a processor (not shown) tocontrol the electrical and/or mechanical dispensing logic associatedwith dispensing the fluid into the fluid container. In one embodiment,the valve 1700 may be configured to rotate the incoming fluid from thefluid source. The fluid sensor 1808 may then sense the rotational speedof the fluid, which is used by the processor to determine the amount offluid to dispense into the fluid container. FIG. 19 illustrates arepresentative rear elevation of a valve of a dispensing system, inaccordance with some embodiments. In this view, the fitting 1721 can beseen on the right of the axis 1750. FIG. 20 illustrates a representativeleft side elevation of a valve of a dispensing system, in accordancewith some embodiments. In this view, the valve actuator assembly 1710can be seen on the right of the axis 1750. The fluid may flow from thefluid source through the fitting 1721 into the valve 1700. In oneembodiment, the fitting 1721 is offset from the axis 1750. This maycause the fluid to spin within the valve block 1709. The rotating fluidpermits the valve 1700 to track the fluid flow using the fluid sensor1808. Based on the number of rotations within an amount of time (angularspeed of the fluid), the processor may calculate the volume of fluiddispensed by the valve 1700. Based on the volume of the fluid dispensed,the processor may close the valve 1700 when the coupled fluid containeris filled to a desired level.

FIG. 21 illustrates a representative rear, left, top view of a valve ofa dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments. The valve 1700includes the housing body 1701, the valve block 1709, and the lowerblock 1711. The valve 1700 also includes the valve actuator assembly1710, the fitting 1721 to a fluid source, and coupler 2105 to couple toa fluid container (not shown). In one embodiment, the valve actuatorassembly 1710 may include a solenoid 1706, solenoid spring 2117, andsolenoid plunger 2207 (see FIG. 22). When actuated, the solenoid 1706moves the ramp 2110 toward the solenoid 1706. In one embodiment, theramp 2110 includes a larger width end 2311 and a narrower width end 2312(see FIG. 23). The top surface of the ramp 2110 is generally flat, whilethe bottom surface of the ramp 2110 has a wedge shape or is generallytapered from the larger width end 2311 to the narrower width end 2312.As the ramp 2110 is moved toward the solenoid 1706, the larger width end2311 of the ramp 2110 is drawn toward the axis 1750 of the valve 1700.This movement of the ramp 2110 and its tapered bottom surface cause theslide rod 1702 to slide down relative to the housing body 1701, awayfrom the valve 1700. The slide rod 1702 is coupled to a plunger shaft2322 and a plunger 2326 (see FIG. 23). When the slide rod 1702 slidesdown relative to the housing body 1701, the plunger shaft 2322 and theplunger 2326 are pulled down, causing the valve 1700 to open. Thesolenoid spring 2117 is coupled to the solenoid 1706 and configured toreturn a plunger shaft 2322 (see FIG. 23) back to its original positionafter the solenoid 1706 has actuated, allowing the valve 1700 to close.

FIG. 22 illustrates a representative rear, left, bottom view of a valveof a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments. Four screws2218 may be used to couple the lower block 1711 to the valve block 1709.Two screws 2219 may be used to couple the ramp 2110 to the lower block1711. In one embodiment, the solenoid spring 2117 may have a uniformlyexpanding diameter such that one end of the solenoid spring 2117 has alarger diameter than the diameter at the opposite end. In oneembodiment, the larger diameter end of the spring 2117 is coupled to thehousing body 1701 and the smaller diameter end is coupled to the lowerblock 1711. The solenoid plunger 2207 is positioned within the solenoidspring 2115 and is coupled to the solenoid 1706 and the ramp 2110.

FIG. 23 illustrates a representative rear, left, top exploded view of avalve of a dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.Describing from the top of FIG. 23, the valve 1700 may include a nozzle1705, a coupler 2105, a first O-ring 2316, a valve case 2310, a secondO-ring 2315, and the housing body 1701. The coupler 2105 is configuredto couple the valve 1700 to a fluid container (not shown). When a fluidcontainer is properly positioned, the coupler 2105 may cause the bottomof the fluid container to open enabling it to receive the fluid from thevalve 1700. The nozzle 1705 is configured to be coupled to the fluidcontainer. The nozzle 1705 includes a mating plate to interface with acorresponding mating plate on the bottom of the fluid container. Whenthe bottom of the fluid container is pressed onto the nozzle 1705, themating plate of the nozzle 1705 is mated with the mating plate of thefluid container as the nozzle 1705 goes inside the fluid container andopens the bottom of the fluid container. Exemplary mating plates andcoupling devices for the dispensing system and the fluid container aredescribed herein. The coupler 2105 may be coupled to the valve 1700 atthe valve case 2310 with the first O-ring 2316 or other seal between thevalve case 2310 and the nozzle 1705. The second O-ring 2315 or otherseal may be used between the valve case 2310 and the housing body 1701.

The housing body 1701 may include the container sensor 1714 and thefluid sensor 1708. A pair of screws 2350 may be used to couple thecontainer sensor 1714 to the housing body 1701. A pair of screws 2320may be used to couple the fluid sensor 1708 to the housing body 1701.The container sensor 1714 is configured to detect the presence and/orproper placement of a fluid container, and the fluid sensor 1708 isconfigured to detect the amount of fluid dispensed into the fluidcontainer. For example, the container sensor 1714 may be a Hall effectsensor used for detecting a magnet within a base of the fluid container.Any magnetic material may be used. Other sensors may also be used, suchas pressure sensors, or mechanical devices, such as push plates orbuttons contacted by the coupled fluid container. The housing body 1701may also be coupled to the solenoid plunger 2207, the solenoid spring2117, and the solenoid 1706, which are used for opening and closing thevalve 1700.

A third O-ring 2304 is positioned between the housing body 1701 and thevalve block 1709. Coupled to the valve bock 1709 via opening 2350 is thefitting 1721. The fitting 1721 may include a barbed end in order to fita fluid source conduit or tube. Other connections are also contemplatedincluding a threaded mating member. The valve 1700 may include valveblock 1709 and lower block 1711 along with housing body 1701 to enclosethe valve components and to couple to the actuator assembly 1710. In oneembodiment, a plunger 2326 is used to control the flow of the fluid. Theplunger 2326 may close or seal the fluid flow path when in one position,and opens the fluid flow path when moved longitudinally to anotherposition. For example, the plunger 2326 is coupled to plunger shaft 2322connected to the actuator assembly 1710. In a closed position, theplunger 2326 rests against the valve case 2310 to seal the valve 1700and prevent fluid flow from the valve 1700 to a fluid container. Theactuator assembly 1710 may include the solenoid 1706, the solenoidspring 2117 and the solenoid plunger 2207. The solenoid plunger 2207 maydirectly or indirectly (through linkages) control the valve plunger2326.

As shown in FIG. 23, the solenoid plunger 2207 is coupled to the ramp2110. The ramp 2110 has a generally wedge shaped bottom surface, withthe larger width end 2311 positioned away from the solenoid 1706. Theslide rod 1702, coupled to the plunger shaft 2322, rests against theramp 2110. When actuated, the solenoid 1706 pulls the solenoid plunger2207 away from the housing body 1701 and toward the solenoid 1706. Asthe solenoid plunger 2207 is pulled, the coupled ramp 2110 is alsopulled in the same direction, causing the wedged bottom surface of theramp 2110 to gradually forces the slide rod 1702 downward and away fromthe housing body 1701 (along the axis 1750). The pulling of the solenoidplunger 2207 also causes the solenoid spring 2117 to coil. As the sliderod 1702 is forced downward, it pulls the plunger shaft 2322 along theaxis 1750. This causes the plunger 2326 to move into the open position,open the value 1700, and permit a fluid flow path around the top of theplunger 2326. After the solenoid 1706 has actuated, the solenoid spring2117 uncoils and returns the solenoid plunger 2207 and the ramp 2110back to their original positions. This causes the plunger shaft 2322 andthe plunger 2326 to return to their previous positions and close thevalve 1700 and the fluid flow path. The linkages including the ramp 2110and the slide rod 1702 permit the translation of the solenoid plunger2207 to operate perpendicularly from the translation of the plungershaft 2322. Thus, the valve 1700 and actuator assembly 1710 may bestored in a more compact area.

In one embodiment, the plunger shaft 2322 includes a turbine 2327 havingtwo or more fins. When the fluid enters the valve block 1709 via thefitting 1721, it is off axis and thus rotates around the valve axis1750. The rotating fluid spins the turbine 2327. The turbine fins mayinclude magnets 2329 that are detected by the fluid sensor 1708. Thefluid sensor 1708 may be a Hall effect sensor to detect the presence ofthe magnets 2329. As the turbine 2327 rotates, the magnet is sensed. Thenumber of rotations may be used by the processor to calculate the fluidflow rate. From the fluid flow rate, the desired volume may be dispensedby allowing the fluid to flow for the required amount of time. Varioussensors and sensing systems may be employed to sense the fluid dispense.The valve 1700 may also include a flow guide 2323 near the plunger 2326in order to direct the fluid flow and reduce the flow rotation. The flowguide 2323 may also be used to guide the plunger shaft 2322 so that afourth O-ring 2330 (e.g., a plunger seal) is properly seated within thevalve case 2310 to close the valve 1700.

In one embodiment, the valve 1700 uses a diaphragm 2325 with a pressureplate (not shown) under it to equalize the pressure inside the valve1700. The pressure of the fluid pushes down on the diaphragm 2325 andpressure plate (not shown) with the same force as the pressure platepushes up on the plunger 2326. Thus, it is possible to open the valve1700 with less force, allowing a much smaller solenoid 1706 than wouldotherwise be required and eliminates the need for a wiper seal, whichmay be costly and provide design complications. The valve 1700 may alsoinclude a temperature controlled system to control the temperature ofthe fluid during dispensing. A conduit 2830 (see FIG. 28) may clip intothe notch 2360 of the valve block 1709. The conduit 2830 may be a coppertube. Fluid conduits may be run along the conduit 2830 as they enter thevalve 1700. For example, chilled fluid may be run through the conduit2830 to enable the fluid to remain cold while it is dispensed.

O-rings or other seals may be used to couple the various components ofthe valve 1700. For example, the first O-ring 2316 may create a sealbetween the valve case 2310 and the nozzle 1705, the second O-ring 2315may create a seal between a drain pan (not shown) and the valve case2310, and the third O-ring 2304 may create a seal between the valve case2310 and the valve block 1709. Various mechanical devices may be used tocouple the components together, such as screws, adhesives, bonding, etc.For example, screws 2318 may be used to hold the lower block 1711 to thevalve block 1709, and screw 2319 may be used to hold the ramp 2110 tothe solenoid plunger 2207. Retaining ring 2390 may be an e-clip to holdthe slide rod 1702 onto the plunger shaft 2322. Retaining ring 2328 maybe used to hold the turbine 2327 in place. There may be one retainingring 2328 above and another retaining ring 2328 below the turbine 2327.

FIG. 24 illustrates a representative rear, right, top view of a valvewith the valve block and the lower block shown in broken lines toillustrate some internal components of the valve, in accordance withsome embodiments. Diagram 2400 includes the housing body 1701 and someof the components of the valve 1700. This includes the slide rod 1702,the ramp 2110, the solenoid spring 2117, the solenoid plunger 2207, andthe solenoid 1706. The diagram 2400 also includes the plunger shaft2322, the diaphragm 2325, and the turbine 2327. The ramp 2110 has agenerally wedge shaped bottom surface, with a larger width end 2311 anda smaller width end 2312, where the larger width end 2311 is positionedaway from the solenoid 1706. The ramp 2110 is coupled to the solenoidplunger 2207 at the smaller width end 2312. When actuated, the solenoid1706 pulls the solenoid plunger 2207 away from the housing body 1701toward the solenoid 1706 along one direction of the double arrow 2415.The wedged bottom surface of the ramp 2110 forces the slide rod 1702down, away from the housing body 1701 along one direction of the doublearrow 2420. As the slide rod 1702 is forced downward, it pulls theplunger shaft 2322 down, causing the valve 1700 to open and creating afluid flow path. As the solenoid plunger 2207 is pulled by the solenoid1706, the solenoid spring 2117 is coiled. The solenoid spring 2117 thenuncoils and returns the solenoid plunger 2207 back to its originalposition along the other direction of the double arrow 2415 after thesolenoid 1706 has actuated. Returning the solenoid plunger 2117 to itsoriginal position causes the slide rod 1702 to push the plunger shaft2322 upward along the other direction of the double arrow 2420, causingthe valve 1700 to close. The opening and closing of the valve 1700affects the flow of the fluid from the fluid source such as, forexample, the beverage supply 2405 via source hose 2410.

FIG. 25 illustrates a representative cross section view of a valveshowing the solenoid in a position when the valve is closed, inaccordance with some embodiments. When the solenoid 1706 is in theposition illustrated in FIG. 25, there is no fluid flowing from thevalve 1700 to a coupled fluid container (not shown). The plunger 2326 ispushed upward against the valve case 2310 closing any fluid path to thenozzle 1705. When the valve 1700 is closed, a portion of the solenoidplunger 2207 is within the housing body 1701. This may be considered asthe original position of the solenoid plunger 2207. Also shown in FIG.25 are the fluid apertures 2550 where the fluid flows from the valve1700 into the fluid container.

FIG. 26 illustrates a representative cross section view of a valveshowing the solenoid in a position when the valve is open, in accordancewith some embodiments. As the solenoid 1706 pulls the solenoid plunger2207 away from the housing body 1701 and in the direction of the arrow2505 (see FIG. 25), the ramp 2110 is pulled in the same direction as thearrow 2505. Based on the ramp 2110 having a wedged bottom surface, theslide rod 1702 is pushed downward in the direction of the arrow 2605while the ramp 2110 moves in the direction of the arrow 2505. When theslide rod 1702 is pushed downward, the plunger shaft 2322 also movesdownward in the direction of the arrow 2605. This causes the plunger2326 to move downward and creates an open flow path, allowing the fluidto flow from the beverage supply 2405 through the fitting 1721 and thehousing body 1701, out of the valve 1700 via the apertures 2550, andinto a fluid container (not shown).

FIG. 27A illustrates a representative front, top, right view of ahousing of a dispensing system having multiple valves, in accordancewith some embodiments. The dispensing system housing 2700 includes afirst front wall 2705 coupled to a second front wall 2706. The secondfront wall 2706 is coupled to a top wall 2807, which in turn is coupledto a back wall 2808. The second front wall 2706 is connected to andpositioned between the first front wall 2705 and the top wall 2807 at anangle. In one embodiment, the second front wall 2706 may be configuredto display a user interface to allow a user to select options, viewstatus, etc. The housing 2700 also includes a first side wall 2710 and asecond side wall 2810. Each of the first side wall 2710 and the secondside wall 2810 has five edges. The first edge has a length dimension2715 which is the same as the width of the first front wall 2707. Thesecond edge has a length dimension 2720 which is the same as the widthof the second front wall 2706. The third edge has a length dimension2725 which is the same as the width of the top wall 2807. The fourthedge has a length dimension 2730 which is the same as the width of theback wall 2808. The fifth edge has a length dimension 2735 which is thesame as a distance from a bottom of the first front wall 2705 to thebottom of the back wall 2808. In one embodiment, the dispensing systemhousing 2700 may include one or more openings to receive one or morevalves 1700. The one or more openings may be in the top wall 2807. Forexample, the top wall 2807 includes four openings (not shown) to receivefour valves 2755, 2760, 2765 and 2770. Illustrated in FIG. 27A are thefour nozzles and couplers of the valves 2755-2770. The remainingportions of the four valves 2755-2770 are hidden from view by the topwall 2807. The external surface of the top wall 2807 may be considered afilling area.

In one embodiment, a platform 2750 may be used with the top wall 2807.For example, the platform 2750 may be placed over the top wall 2807 andis configured such that there is a clearance between a surface of theplatform 2750 and a surface of the top wall 2807, providing an elevatedplatform. There may be multiple openings in the surface of the platform2750. These openings allow any fluid spillage to go from the surface ofthe platform 2750 (the dispensing platform) to the surface of the topwall 2807 (the filling area). In one embodiment, the dispensing systemmay also include a drainage system around the filling area. The drainagesystem may remove any spilled fluid from the dispensing platform and useconduits or tubes to transport the fluid to a disposal system, such as adrain or sink. The drainage system may surround the dispensing system ordispensing platform to keep the serving area relatively free fromstanding liquid. The platform 2750 also includes openings to accommodatethe valves 2755-2770 and the bottom of corresponding fluid containers.The combination of the dispensing system housing 2700 and the valves2755-2770 together with the connections to the fluid source provides anintegrated dispensing system that may be placed on an existing countertop or may be incorporated into a counter or serving surface.

In one embodiment, the dispensing system may include a user interfacethat provides filling options for an attached fluid container. Anexample of the user interface is illustrated on the second front wall2706. For example, the second front wall 2706 may include a first userinterface section 2772 and a second user interface section 2774. Thefirst user interface section 2774 may include options associated withthe valve 2755 and similar options associated with the valve 2760. Thesecond user interface section 2774 may include options associated withthe valve 2765 and similar options associated with the valve 2770.

FIG. 27B illustrates a representative close-up view of the userinterface, in accordance with some embodiments. The user interface mayinclude options for automatic, semi-automatic or manual control. Thediagram illustrated in FIG. 27B may correspond to the first userinterface section 2772. For automatic filling, the container size and/orfilling level may be selected. For example, to set the automatic mode,the automatic option 2780A may be selected, and then one of thecontainer size options 2781A, 2782A and 2783A may be selected. In thismode, when a fluid container is properly placed into the fillingplatform, the fluid is automatically dispensed into the fluid container,and the fluid flow is automatically stopped after a pre-determinedvolume of fluid has been dispensed. The volume of fluid to be dispensedis determined based on the selected container size option. The userinterface may include the start option 2790A and the stop option 2792A,which may be used in the manual mode or semi-automatic mode. Forexample, in full manual mode, the user can start dispensing the fluidinto the fluid container by selecting the start option 2790A. The usercan then select the stop option 2792A at the appropriate time to stopthe fluid flow into the fluid container.

In the semi-automatic mode, the user may select the automatic option2780A, select one of the container size options 2781A-2783A and causethe fluid to flow automatically into the fluid container by properlyplacing the fluid container onto the filling platform. In this example,instead of waiting for the fluid flow to stop automatically the user mayselect the stop option 2792A prior to the pre-determined volume of fluidis dispensed into the fluid container. As another example of using thesemi-automatic mode, the user may select one of the container sizeoptions 2781A-2783A, place a fluid container onto the dispensingplatform, and then manually select the start option 2790A. Thedispensing system may then dispense the fluid into the fluid containerand stops dispensing after an appropriate volume of fluid is dispensed.The volume to be dispensed is based on the selected container size.

The nozzle 1705 is generally in a closed position and includes a raisedmating plate. With the mating plate raised, the apertures 2550 withinthe nozzle body are closed. When a fluid container is coupled to thenozzle 1705, the mating plate is pushed down along the nozzle 1705 andthe axis 1750, the apertures 2550 are open creating a fluid flow pathbetween the dispensing system and the coupled fluid container.

The user interface may also include cleaning option 2785A and primingoption 2786A. Status information may also be displayed on the userinterface. The status information may indicate to the user whether thedispensing system is ready to dispense. In one embodiment, the statusinformation may be implemented using a visible indicator such as alight. For example, the user interface may set the light 2794A todisplay a green color indicating that the dispensing system is ready todispense, or it may set the light 2794A to display a red colorindicating that the dispensing system is not ready to dispense. Asanother example, a set of green lights positioned around the start andstop options 2790A, 2792A may be illuminated to indicate that the nozzleof the corresponding valve is open. A set of red lights may be similarlypositioned and may be illuminated when the corresponding valve isclosed. As mentioned, the container sensor 1714 may be used to detectthe presence and/or the proper placement of the fluid container onto thedispensing platform, and the fluid sensor 1708 may be used to determinethe volume of fluid dispensed.

In one embodiment, the user interface may also include fluid volumeoptions 2795A to control the fluid volume (or fill level) to beautomatically dispensed into a fluid container. For example, the usermay use the decrease option 2796A (e.g., a button with a minus sign) todecrease the volume and the increase option 2798A (e.g., a button with aplus sign) to increase the volume. Although not shown, the userinterface may include other controls, user information, or indicators.

The first user interface section 2772 is illustrated to include anotheruser interface for a second valve and configured to have the same set ofoptions. This includes the automatic option 2780B, the container sizeoptions 2781B, 2782B, 2783B, the cleaning option 2785B, the primingoption 2786B, the start option 2790B, the stop option 2792B, thelight(s) 2794B, the fluid volume options 2795B, the fill level decreaseoption 2796B and increase option 2798B, and so on. For one embodiment,each of the valves and corresponding user interfaces may be associatedwith a same type of beverage or a different type of beverage.

The options in the user interface may include electrical or mechanicaloptions such as, for example, touch screen, buttons, toggles, switches,dials, knobs, lights, sounds, etc. In one embodiment, the user interfaceis associated with electronic components including the processor. Theuser interface and electronics may be separated from the valve and fluidsource by a dividing plate 2825 (see FIG. 28). The dividing plate 2825may also include openings to provide air flow and to reduce overheatingof the electronic components. Locking mechanism 2835 may be used to keepthe dividing plate 2825 in place.

FIG. 28 illustrates a representative bottom, front, right view of adispensing system showing the multiple valves, in accordance with someembodiments. The four valves illustrated in FIG. 28 correspond to thefour valves 2755-2770 illustrated in FIG. 27 and reflect the portions ofthe valves 2755-2770 that are not visible in FIG. 27. As illustrated,the valves 2755-2770 are not connected to any fluid sources. In oneembodiment, the top wall 2807 may also include an opening to receive adrain fitting 2815 to drain any fluid that may be spilled onto thefilling area. In the current example, the drain fitting 2815 ispositioned near the back wall 2808. The drain fitting 2815 may becoupled to a drain conduit (not shown). The drain conduit may couple adrainage area from the filling area of the dispensing system to adrainage location such as, for example, a floor drain or a sink. Thedrain conduit may be a tube connecting the drainage area with thedrainage location. A conduit 2830 may clip into the valves 2755-2770 todeliver temperature regulated fluid. Fluid conduits may be run along theconduit 2830 so that the fluid may remain at a desired temperatureduring transport. The regulated fluid may be transported generally inparallel to the fluid conduits, or may generally coil or wrap around thefluid conduits. The regulated fluid and the fluid from the fluid sourcemay also be run through cooperating conduits, such as concentricconduits. A pump may be used to transport the regulated fluid from asource to the valve of the dispensing system. A temperature regulatormay use heated or cooled regulated fluid, liquid or gas, to maintain thetemperature of the regulated fluid and therefore the temperature of thefluid from the fluid source.

FIG. 29 illustrates a representative bottom view of a dispensing systemshowing source tubes connected to the valves, in accordance with someembodiments. The source conduit 2905 may be coupled to a fitting (e.g.,fitting 1721), or it may be directly coupled to a valve (e.g., valve2755). The fitting may be barbed or threaded which directly orindirectly couples to a source conduit 2905. The source conduit 2905 maybe a tube. There is one source conduit 2905 for each valve. Illustratedin the current example are four source conduits for four valves. Athreaded member is coupled to the valve to connect to a correspondingthreaded member from the source conduit 2905.

FIG. 30 illustrates a representative bottom view of the dispensingsystem showing the source tubes with a first layer of insulation, inaccordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, the first layer ofinsulation 3005 may be wrapped around portions of the source conduit2905 that are in between the valves 2755-2770. The source conduits maybe insulated to retain the temperature of the fluid at a desired level.As mentioned, the conduit 2830 may also be included to provide a heattransfer system to continually cool or heat the fluid at the desiredtemperature. The conduit 2830 may be coupled to the source conduits 2905to pass cold water, which provides a cooling source for the fluid beingtransported. For one embodiment, the first layer of insulation 3005 mayinclude a layer of aluminum material and then a layer of foam material.

FIG. 31 illustrates a representative bottom view of a dispensing systemshowing the source tubes with a second layer of insulation, inaccordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, the second layer ofinsulation 3105 may wrap around portions of the source conduits 2905that are within the dispensing system housing and portions of the sourceconduits 2905 that extend partially outside of the dispensing systemhousing. For one embodiment, the second layer of insulation 3105 mayinclude a layer of foam material. Insulating tapes may be used to keepthe first insulation layer 3005 and the second insulation layer 3105together with the source conduit 2905. Other insulation materials andusage combinations may also be used.

FIG. 32 illustrates a representative cooling system showing how thetemperature of the source fluid can be controlled during transport, inaccordance with some embodiments. The cooling system may include acooled or cold liquid. Liquid 3240 may be, for example, glycol, water orsaline solution chilled or iced, or other cold liquid. The liquid 3240(e.g., glycol) may help keep the source fluid (e.g., beer) chilled allthe way up to the point of dispense. The liquid 3240 may be held in atank or container 3205. The tank 3205 may be filled or partially filledwith the cooling liquid. The tank 3205 may include an inlet 3204 and anoutlet 3207. The tank 3205 may also include a first coupler to couplewith an in-coming fluid conduit 3225 and another coupler to couple without-going fluid conduit 3208. The tank 3205 may also include amonitoring device 3209 for monitoring purposes including, for example,level of the liquid 3240 inside the tank 3205, temperature of the liquid3240, etc. For one embodiment, the cooling system may be portable andmay include an ice bath to submerge (fully or partially) and chill thetank 3205 and the liquid 3240.

Pump 3210 may be used to pump the liquid 3240 from the tank 3205. Thepump 3210 may be powered using the same power source that is used topower the dispensing system, or it may use a separate power source.Power is delivered to the pump 3210 via power line 3212. The pump 3210may be used to circulate the liquid 3240 through a system of coolingconduits including the conduit 2830 illustrated in FIG. 28. For example,the out-going conduit 3208 is used to transport the liquid 3240 from thetank 3205 to the pump 3210. Conduit 3215 is used to transport the liquid3240 from the tank 3205 to the dispensing system. The conduit 2830 isused to transport the liquid 3240 though the dispensing system by beingconnected to the valves 2755, 2760, 2765, and 2770. Conduit 3220 is usedto transport the liquid 3240 away from the dispensing system to becooled by fan and/or radiator 3250. The conduit 3220 may be coupled tothe radiator 3250 via an in-coming coupler of the radiator 3250. Thein-coming conduit 3225 is used to transport the liquid 3240 from the fanand/or radiator 3250 back to the tank 3205. The in-coming conduit 3225may be coupled to the radiator 3250 via an out-going coupler of theradiator 3250. Illustrated in FIG. 32 are directional arrows that showthe directions of the liquid 3240 along each of the mentioned conduits.

The conduit 3215 may run along the source conduits 2905 to maintain thefluid at the desired temperature during transport. The conduit 3215 mayrun parallel to the source conduits 2905, circumferentially surround thesource conduits 2905 (for example, coils), or combinations thereof (forexample, helical line).

In one embodiment, the conduits 3215, 3220, and 3225 may be made ofstainless steel or copper or other material of high thermalconductivity. In one embodiment, temperature regulated air may be usedto maintain the conduit 3215 and the source conduits 2905 at a desiredtemperature. For example, the fluid source 2405 may be housed within arefrigeration unit to maintain the fluid at a desired temperature. Acooled air line may then be used with the conduit 3215 to maintain thetemperature of the fluid from the fluid source 2405 to the dispensingsystem during transport.

The dispensing system may be placed on an existing counter top or may beincorporated into a counter or serving surface 3230. Alternatively, thedispensing system may be provided as components that can be incorporatedinto a serving area as required by the location. In one embodiment, thedispensing system may include areas where information can be displayedand visible. For example, images, graphics, product logos, customericons, etc. may be displayed in any area of the first front wall 2705.The information may be integrated into the some of the functions of thevalve including, for example, the on/off or start/stop mechanisms. Theinformation may be displayed for purely aesthetic purposes. For example,the customer icon may be the traditional beer taps associated with thebeers dispensed by the dispensing system.

FIG. 33 illustrates a representative dispensing logic diagram that maybe used by the dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.The dispensing system may include dispensing logic to control electricaland mechanical components. The dispensing logic may be performed byhardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, state machines, etc.), software(such as is run on a general purpose computer system or dedicatedmachine), or combinations of both. The dispensing logic may beimplemented with combinational logic and finite state machines. Thedispensing logic may include application specific integrated chip(ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or processors, or anycombination thereof. Software may be used and may include machineinstructions. Information may be received from peripheral devices.Information may be displayed on the peripheral devices.

Referring to FIG. 33, the dispensing logic may include a processor 3305and memory 3310 that may be configured to store information andinstructions. The dispensing logic may include electrical circuitsincluding bus 3351 that allows information to be sent by and to theprocessor 3305. Information may be sent to the processor 3305 by thecontainer sensor 1714 to indicate proper placement of a fluid container.Information may also be sent to the processor 3305 by the fluid sensor1708 to indicate the amount of fluid flow based on the rotation of theturbine 2327. A timer 3355 may be used to determine flow times andrates. The processor 3305 may send information to the actuator assembly1710 to cause the solenoid 1706 in the actuator assembly 1710 to moveand cause the fluid to flow. The memory 3310 may store instructionsand/or information that allow the processor 3305 to calculate anddetermine the volume of the fluid to be dispensed to a fluid container.

The processor 3305 may receive information from and may displayinformation on a user interface 3350. The implementation of the userinterface 3350 may include an auto mode module 3352 to allow a user toset the automatic filling mode, a manual mode module 3255 to allow theuser to set the manual filling mode. The user interface 3350 may alsoinclude the container size module 3357 to allow the user to specify thesize or volume of the fluid container to receive the fluid, and thefilling control module 3360 to allow the user to adjust the volume to bedispensed to the fluid container. Power module 3362 may be used to poweron or power off the dispensing system. Status module 3358 may be used todisplay status information to the user. This may include informationabout the dispensing system being ready to dispense or not ready todispense. Although not described, the dispensing logic may also includeother modules to enable the dispensing system to dispense the fluid intothe fluid container according to the embodiments described herein.

FIG. 34 illustrates a representative dispensing flow diagram, inaccordance with some embodiments. The flow diagram may be applicablewhen the dispensing system is set to run in the automatic mode. The flowmay start at block 3405 where automatic mode information and containersize information is received. When applicable, filling level informationmay also be received. In one embodiment, the automatic mode informationand the container size information may be received in any order when nofluid has yet been dispensed.

At block 3410, proper fluid container placement information may bereceived after a fluid container is placed in contact with the valve onthe dispensing platform. Proper placement of the container may require amating plate positioned on the bottom of the fluid container to matewith a mating plate positioned on the nozzle 1705. As mentioned, themating plate positioned on the bottom of the fluid container may includea magnet. At block 3415, a signal may be transmitted to cause the valveto open, to open a fluid flow path from the valve to the fluidcontainer, and to allow the fluid to be dispensed into the fluidcontainer from the bottom of the fluid container. The signal may causethe solenoid 1706 in the valve assembly 1710 to move and the plunger2326 to open. At block 3420, rotation information may be received. Therotation information may be information relating to detecting a rotationof the turbine 2327. The detection may be performed by the fluid sensor1708. A magnet may be positioned on a fin of the turbine 2327, and thefluid sensor 1708 may be a Hall effect sensor. Based on the rotationinformation and information from a timer, dispensed volume may bedetermined.

At block 3425, the determined dispensed volume may be compared with thecontainer size information (and filling level information whenapplicable). When the determined dispensed volume is less than thecontainer size information, the flow of the fluid into the fluidcontainer may be allowed to continue, and the comparing operations mayrepeat. It may be difficult to dispense exactly the amount of fluiddesired. For one embodiment, a threshold may be used to determine whento stop the flow of the fluid. At block 3430, based on the dispensedvolume being equal to or nearly equal to the container size information(or within the threshold), the flow of the fluid into the fluidcontainer may be stopped. This may include transmitting another signalto the valve and cause the plunger 2326 to close. Once a filled fluidcontainer is removed from the dispensing platform, information may bereceived to allow the dispensing system to reset and be in a ready stateto fill another fluid container or to flush/clean between uses. In oneembodiment, the flow diagram described above may be adjusted toaccommodate the semi-automatic dispensing mode by selecting the stopoption 2792 during the operations of the block 3425 to stop the fluidflow prior to the fluid container being filled.

While some specific embodiments have been described herein, theinvention is not to be limited to these embodiments. The invention is tobe understood as not limited by the specific embodiments describedherein, but only by scope of the appended claims. Features and detailsfrom one or more described embodiments may also be combined, added, orremoved to form other embodiments within the scope of the invention, asthe described embodiments are merely exemplary of various featuresconsidered novel and within the scope of the invention. Embodiments ofthe invention may be used where a constant seal between a container andthe source of a non-solid (e.g., fluid or liquid) material needs to bemaintained. Embodiments of the invention may permit the container to berepeatedly coupled to (without breaching the seal of the container) andthen removed from the source.

Although embodiments of the invention are described and illustratedherein in terms of liquid, beverage, or beer dispensers, it should beunderstood that embodiments of this invention are not so limited, butare additionally applicable with other liquids and substances. In theembodiments implementing magnetic materials, the dispensers arepreferably used with substances that would not interfere with themagnetic interaction of one or more components (e.g., non-ferroussubstances). Furthermore, although embodiments of the invention may bedescribed and illustrated herein in terms of filling a container fromits bottom, it should be understood that embodiments of the inventionare also applicable to filling from a bottom portion of the container.The term “bottom” should generally be understood to include any lowerportion of the container such that entry of the filling liquid isgenerally from under the surface of the liquid in the container for atleast a later part of the filling processes. For example, the ‘bottom”may include a side of the container where initially the filling processwill be above the surface of the liquid in the container, but if thecontainer is filled to capacity, the filling process will be under thesurface of the container liquid for a later part of the filling process.Embodiments of the invention may also be used for filling a closedcontainer from a top portion thereof.

Although embodiments of this invention have been fully described withreference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that variouschanges and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in theart. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as beingincluded within the scope of embodiments of this invention as defined bythe appended claims. For example, specific examples are provided forshapes and materials; however, embodiments include those variationsobvious to a person skilled in the art, such as changing a shape orcombining materials together. For example, specific examples include amagnetic material or ferrous metal included in a ring in either thecontainer or beverage dispenser, but the embodiment is not so limited,and may include a magnetic material combined in the container ordispenser, such as by using blocks, pellets, or other variations.Further, embodiments disclosed herein generally describe a beveragedispenser for creating a fluid flow path and a separate valve tocreating the fluid flow, however, these features may be combined into asingle device. The term “coupled” is intended to include direct andindirect attachment between the coupled parts. Further, embodimentsherein describe electrical and mechanical components for an exemplaryvalve system. Embodiments include those variations obvious to a personskilled in the art, such as changing out electrical and mechanicalcomponents to effect the same result. Specific embodiments are alsodescribed for a dispenser system, including housing, user input device,and customer icons which may be modified, eliminated, or combined aswould be apparent to one of skill in the art. Features as describedherein may be used in any combination and are not limited to theembodiments in which they are described. Thus, embodiments may includeadditional features or may eliminate features as desired by the specificapplication.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fluid container, comprising: a bottom surfaceincluding an opening; a connection device, comprising: a ring crimpedaround the opening, the ring including a ferrous metal; a cap includinga magnetic material, the cap coupled to the ring via magnetic attractionto seal the opening in the bottom surface in a fluid container closedposition, the connection device designed to transition from the fluidcontainer closed position to a fluid container open position when theconnection device is coupled to a filling device for filling of thefluid container through the opening in the bottom surface.
 2. The fluidcontainer according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic material of atleast one of the ring and the cap comprises a plurality of neodymiummagnets.
 3. The fluid container according to claim 1, wherein the ringis crimped onto an inner edge of the bottom surface circumscribing theopening, the ring having an inner surface with a surface area that is atleast twice as large as a surface area of the bottom surface inner edgecrimped by the ring.
 4. The fluid container according to claim 3,wherein the surface area of the ring is at least three times as large asthe surface area of the inner edge crimped by the ring.
 5. The fluidcontainer according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface is formedfrom polyethylene terephthalate.
 6. The fluid container according toclaim 1, wherein the bottom surface of the fluid container furthercomprises a recessed region that projects into the open interior of thefluid container, the opening being located in the recessed region. 7.The fluid container according to claim 6, wherein the opening iscircumscribed by a flat annular ledge in the recessed region, the ringspanning an entire inner surface of the annular ledge.
 8. The fluidcontainer according to claim 7, wherein the ring is crimped to theannular ledge such that the ring tends to remain flat when the fluidcontainer is partially crushed and the annular ledge deformed.
 9. Thefluid container according to claim 1, wherein the cap is removable fromthe fluid container.
 10. The fluid container according to claim 1,further comprising a rim defining an open top.
 11. The fluid containeraccording to claim 10, wherein a top surface of the cap is visiblethrough the open top, the top surface of the cap including a messageselected from the group consisting of text, one or more symbols, one ormore pictures, one or more graphics, one or more logos, and combinationsthereof.
 12. A fluid container, comprising: a bottom surface includingan opening; and a connection device, comprising: a ring crimped aroundthe opening; a removable cap coupled to the ring via magnetic attractionto seal the opening in the bottom surface in a fluid container closedposition, the connection device designed to transition from the fluidcontainer closed position to a fluid container open position when theconnection device is coupled to a filling device for filling of thefluid container through the opening in the bottom surface.
 13. The fluidcontainer according to claim 12, wherein the ring includes a ferrousmetal, and wherein the removable cap includes a magnetic material. 14.The fluid container according to claim 13, wherein the magnetic materialof at least one of the ring and the cap comprises a plurality ofneodymium magnets.
 15. The fluid container according to claim 12,wherein the ring is crimped onto an inner edge of the bottom surfacecircumscribing the opening, the ring having an inner surface with asurface area that is at least twice as large as a surface area of thebottom surface inner edge crimped by the ring.
 16. The fluid containeraccording to claim 15, wherein the surface area of the ring is at leastthree times as large as the surface area of the inner edge crimped bythe ring.
 17. The fluid container according to claim 12, wherein thebottom surface is formed from polyethylene terephthalate.
 18. The fluidcontainer according to claim 12, wherein the bottom surface of the fluidcontainer further comprises a recessed region that projects into theopen interior of the fluid container, the opening being located in therecessed region.
 19. The fluid container according to claim 18, whereinthe opening is circumscribed by a flat annular ledge in the recessedregion, the ring spanning an entire inner surface of the annular ledge.20. The fluid container according to claim 19, wherein the ring iscrimped to the annular ledge such that the ring tends to remain flatwhen the fluid container is partially crushed and the annular ledgedeformed.
 21. The fluid container according to claim 12, furthercomprising a rim defining an open top.
 22. The fluid container accordingto claim 21, wherein a top surface of the cap is visible through theopen top, the top surface including a message selected from the groupconsisting of text, one or more symbols, one or more pictures, one ormore graphics, one or more logos, and combinations thereof.